Formation of high-magnesian calcites via an amorphous precursor phase: Possible biological implications

Authors
Raz, S Weiner, S Addadi, L
Citation
S. Raz et al., Formation of high-magnesian calcites via an amorphous precursor phase: Possible biological implications, ADVAN MATER, 12(1), 2000, pp. 38
Citations number
35
Categorie Soggetti
Multidisciplinary,"Material Science & Engineering
Journal title
ADVANCED MATERIALS
ISSN journal
09359648 → ACNP
Volume
12
Issue
1
Year of publication
2000
Database
ISI
SICI code
0935-9648(20000107)12:1<38:FOHCVA>2.0.ZU;2-2
Abstract
The skeletons of many organisms are composed of high-magnesian calcite (10- 40 mol.-% Mg), which is not stable under equilibrium conditions. Here, high magnesian calcite particles (>20 mol.-%) are produced at ambient temperatu re in the presence and absence of additives. Most importantly these particl es are shown to initiate from an amorphous precursor phase. The Figure show s the typical dumb-bell morphology of magnesian calcite spherulites.