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Silicon in magnetite: High resolution microanalysis of magnetite-ilmenite intergrowths

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Abstract

Magnetite-ilmenite “oxidation-exsolution” intergrowths from an original titanomagnetite microphenocryst from an ash flow tuff unit have been studied using conventional transmission electron microscopy and analytical electron microscopy. Silicon has been found to be in solid solution in all of the magnetite studied and in some of the coexisting ilmenite. The average value in magnetite is 1.2 wt.% Si, equivalent to solid solution of 9 mole % Fe2SiO4. Silicon is also present in very small silicate inclusions and as unusual Si-rich domains of uncertain origin in magnetite. The inclusions and domains may be irregularly distributed through the magnetite in sizes well below those resolvable with the electron microprobe. Microprobe analyses for Si in magnetite generally reflect these heterogeneities in addition to a component presumably in solid solution. The petrologic implications of the data can be assessed only when relevant thermochemical data become available and the distribution of Si in magnetite is better understood.

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Author notes

  1. Nancy G. Newberry

    Present address: EXXON Company USA, 79701, Midland, Texas, USA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geological Sciences, The University of Michigan, 48109, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA

    Nancy G. Newberry, Donald R. Peacor, Eric J. Essene & John W. Geissman

  2. Department of Geology, Colorado School of Mines, 80401, Golden, Colorado, USA

    Nancy G. Newberry, Donald R. Peacor, Eric J. Essene & John W. Geissman

Authors
  1. Nancy G. Newberry
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  2. Donald R. Peacor
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  3. Eric J. Essene
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  4. John W. Geissman
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Additional information

Contribution No. 376 from the Mineralogical Laboratory, Department of Geological Sciences, The University of Michigan

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Newberry, N.G., Peacor, D.R., Essene, E.J. et al. Silicon in magnetite: High resolution microanalysis of magnetite-ilmenite intergrowths. Contr. Mineral. and Petrol. 80, 334–340 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00378006

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00378006

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