Characterisation of soil-oxide analogs by applied-field Fe-57 Mossbauer spectroscopy

In this contribution, the effect of high external magnetic fields upon the Mossbauer spectra of aluminous alpha- and gamma-Fe2O3, of aluminous alpha- and gamma-FeOOH and of aluminous Fe3O4 is reviewed. It is shown that the sh apes of these spectra are characteristic of these materials and also to som e extent of their crystallinities and Al-for-Fe substitutions. Based upon t his evaluation, the potential for application of external-field Mossbauer s pectroscopy to soil-related analytical purposes is demonstrated for two soi l samples. Limitations of the technique are discussed. Finally, some sugges tions for further research in this field are indicated.