Decoding the nanoscale porosity in serpentinites from multidimensional electron microscopy and discrete element
Alireza Chogani1, Oliver Plümper1
1Department of Earth Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Contributions to Mineralogy and Petrology. Beitrage Zur Mineralogie Und Petrologie
|April 15, 2024
Summary
Serpentinites possess a nanoporous structure influencing their geochemical behavior. This pervasive network of nanoscale pores affects fluid transport and chemical reactions, impacting geological processes.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Mineralogy
- Materials Science
Background:
- Serpentinites are common in Earth's lithosphere.
- Nanoporosity in serpentinites can significantly affect their geochemical behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the characteristics, scale dependence, and implications of nanoporosity in lizardite-dominated serpentinites.
- Understand the formation mechanisms and pore morphology of serpentinite nanopores.
Main Methods:
- Multidimensional imaging techniques.
- Molecular-dynamics-based discrete element modeling.
- Analysis of pore size distribution and morphology.
Main Results:
- Serpentinites act as nanoporous media with pore sizes generally under 100 nm.
- Nanoporosity arises from stochastic growth, random packing, and delamination along mineral interfaces.
- Pore size distribution exhibits fractal characteristics, suggesting a pervasive nanoporous network.
Conclusions:
- The interconnected nanoporous network in serpentinites influences fluid transport, mineral solubility, and chemical reactions.
- These nanoporous properties have profound implications for the geochemical evolution of serpentinites.
- Emergent properties due to pore confinement warrant further investigation.
