Characterization and physical properties of apatites

Apatites are available in different forms such as natural minerals, as majo r content in human tooth and also in synthetic form. Two samples each of al l the three types have been chosen for the present investigation. Character ization of the samples has been carried out using chemical analysis for the mineral samples and using Infrared and X-ray diffractometer recordings for all the samples. The physical properties studied include dielectric and el ectrical properties, thermal conductivity and micro hardness. The Infrared study indicated a difference in the content of hydroxyl group in the three apatites. The ratio of carbonate and water has been found to differ with ag e. Irradiation shows radiation hardening for all the samples, while the cha nge in other properties is only marginal.