MadSci Network: Engineering |
Your problem seems to be one of determining the fraction of a liquid sample that is in the solid state as its temperature is being decreased about its freezing point. Apparently in the presence of agitation. For the case of water, light scattering might work. This is a complex technique. More can be found out about it in the polymer characterization literature where it is used to determine polymer molecular weights. Light scattering may also work for any clear liquid that is being solidified. The presence of agitation will increase the complexity of getting good results with light scattering. Ice is less dense than water. So, in this case, perhaps the ice can be scooped up during the experiment and its quantity determined. This is an invasive procedure and may not meet the need. For other liquids, the problem depends on the difference in physical properties of the solid and liquid phases. I recommend that books on physical chemistry, and/or books on the compounds of interest, be checked. These might give ideas about how the desired measurements can be carried out.
Try the links in the MadSci Library for more information on Engineering.