X-ray line broadening in plastically deformed calcite

Abstract

The broadening of several x-ray powder lines of calcite as a result of plastic deformation under a high confining pressure has been studied in Solenhofen limestone. The dependence of the broadening on the Bragg engle, the apparent influence of elastic anisotropy and the results of Fourier analysis of the lines suggest that the broadening is due mainly ta internal strains. The stored energy associated with the internal strains is estimated to be an appreciable fraction, possibly one half or more, of the energy (about 10 cal g−¹) expended during deformation. The amount of broadening end the estimated stored energy are relatively large in comparison to the values for most deformed metals. There is no evidence for the presence of stacking faults.