Techniques for Imaging Internal Composition and Structure of MN Micronodules

Abstract

Manganese micronodules (Mn accumulations <500 μm diameter found throughout marine sediments) represent as much as 65-80% of all marine sedimentary Mn (Chester and Hughes, 1969). Work on marine manganese occurrences up to the present time has been focused upon nodules (> 1 cm diameter) found at the sediment-water interface. The economic importance of nodule associated trace metals explains this restricted approach but does not aid our understanding of the genetic processes for manganese accumulation. Micronodules have not been studied with the rigor due a potential manganese nodule precursor species.