Raman spectroscopy on Psaronius sp.: a contribution to the understanding of the permineralization process

Samples of the permineralized tree fern Psaronius sp. from the Lower Permia n Rotliegend of Chemnitz were examined to find out their chemical compositi on and structural behavior. The inhomogenic distribution of elementary cons tituents of oxides, sulfates and carbonates within the silica-matrix consis ting of alpha -quartz and chalcedony were formerly detected by analytical X -ray microscopy. Most of the compounds could be revealed by Raman spectrosc opy. Calcite and barite developed in small fissures. Iron of different oxid ation level is the prevailing pigment in the agate preserved adventitious r oots. Coalified cellulose whose structure mainly corresponds to anthracite reflects the anatomical detail of the former organic tissues. (C) 2001 Else vier Science B.V. All rights reserved.