Synthesis of Mg 2SiO 4-Fe 2SiO 4 spinel solid solutions

Abstract

A wide range of spinel solid solutions has been synthesized at high pressures and temperatures along the join Mg 2SiO 4-Fe 2SiO 4. A transition has also been found in pure Mg 2SiO 4. Magnesia-rich spinels are about 10% denser than the corresponding olivines. A provisional estimate of the pressure required for the olivine-spinel transition in Mg 2SiO 4 is 170 kb at 900°C.