Dolomite Decomposition to (Ca,Mg)O Solid Solutions: An X-Ray Diffraction Study, Part I.

Abstract

Dolomite [CaMg(CO₃)₂] full decomposition has been studied by in situ powder X-ray diffraction. The primary products are Ca-rich and Mg-rich (Ca.Mg)O solid solutions with compositions different from equilibrium values. In some cases a strained form of calcite is also produced. The experimental results show that the oxides are formed in a direct process with a shear mechanism, whereas calcite formation is due to CaO recarbonation.