2D and 3D epitaxies of the main {010}, {001} and {100} forms of deposited bassanite (CaSO4·0.5H2O) on {10.4} calcite (CaCO3) as a substrate are described to provide a theoretical crystallographic background for the replacement of calcite by bassanite both in nature and in the laboratory and by weathering linked to cultural heritage. First, epitaxy in the third dimension, perpendicular to the investigated interfaces, has been verified in order to establish whether adsorption/absorption can occur (as anomalous mixed crystals) at the bassanite/calcite epi-contacts. Secondly, and by applying the Hartman-Perdok method, 2D lattice coincidences have been obtained from the physical-geometric matches of bonds running in the common directions within the elementary slices facing the substrate/deposit interfaces. This research represents the second and more detailed part of a wider program extended to the epi-interactions between the following pairs: (i) {010}-gypsum/{10.4}-calcite (just published); (ii) bassanite/{10.4}-calcite (the present work); and (iii) anhydrite (CaSO4)/{10.4}-calcite (coming soon).
Keywords: anomalous mixed crystals; bassanite; calcite; epitaxy; twins.
© Dino Aquilano et al. 2022.