Abstract
Mechanisms responsible for remanent magnetization in lunar samples are different from mechanisms for terrestrial samples simply because lunar samples contain iron and iron alloys, while terrestrial samples contain oxides as major remanence carriers. Nine new remanence mechanisms for iron and iron-nickel alloys are proposed in this paper, and their characteristics are summarized. The remanence mechanisms are MTRM (Martensitic), DARM (Duplex Anneal), RCRM (Recrystallization), SRRM (Shock Transition), TPRM (Transition Point), TMRM (Transformation), RMRM (Reverse Transformation), TSRM (Shock Twinning), DCRM (Precipitation). Specific metallographic criteria for recognition of phase structures associated with the mechanisms are briefly described, and micrographs of some of the phase designations are presented. Magnetic remanence properties for iron-nickel alloys are dependent on the amount of nickel and on the thermal history of the alloy. Specific phase structures associated with some transformations impart high magnetic stability even in large grains of metal and alloys (≳ 1 mm). The proposed mechanisms may apply to the complete size range of metal in the lunar samples (∼0.002μm to 1000μm). It is likely that magnetic remanence properties in lunar samples will have to be reinterpreted in terms of the proposed mechanisms.
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Wasilewski, P. Magnetic remanence mechanisms in iron and iron-nickel alloys, metallographic recognition criteria and implications for lunar sample research. The Moon 9, 335–354 (1974). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00562578
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00562578