Crystal chemistry of mimetite, Pb10(AsO4)6Cl1.48O0.26, and finnemanite, Pb10(AsO3)6Cl2

Acta Crystallogr B. 2008 Feb;64(Pt 1):34-41. doi: 10.1107/S0108768107066402. Epub 2008 Jan 17.

Abstract

The crystal chemistries of synthetic mimetite, Pb(10)(As(5+)O(4))(6)(Cl(2 - x)O(x/2)), a neutral apatite, and finnemanite, Pb(10)(As(3+)O(3))(6)Cl(2), a reduced apatite, were characterized using a combination of X-ray powder diffraction, neutron diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Both phases conform to hexagonal P6(3)/m symmetry; however, the temperature-driven transformation of clinomimetite to mimetite described earlier was not confirmed. The average mimetite structure is best described through the introduction of partially occupied oxygen sites. A better understanding of the mixed arsenic speciation in apatites can guide the formulation of waste form ceramics and improve models of long-term durability after landfill disposal.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Crystallography, X-Ray
  • Lead / chemistry*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Spectrum Analysis / methods
  • Temperature

Substances

  • Lead