The Application of Micro-Raman Spectroscopy to Analysis and Identification of Minerals in Thin Section

Authors

H. Mao, Carnegie Institution of Washington
R. J. Hemley, Carnegie Institution of Washington
E. C. T. Chao, U.S. Geological Survey

Abstract

Micro-Raman spectroscopy is a useful analytical tool for studying minerals in thin section. The advantages of this technique as a structural probe for analysis of micron-size minerals are demonstrated with a study of polymorphism of SiO₂ and MgSiO₃. Three polymorphs of silica, 𝝰-quartz, coesite, and glass, in a thin section of Coconino sandstone were identified in situ with a Raman microprobe. The Raman spectra of these phases were compared to that measured for stishovite obtained from the same rock. Spectra of protoenstatite, orthoenstatite, and clinoenstatite, three polymorphs of MgSiO₃, are consistent with their similar pyroxene chain structures but different space groups. The characteristic Raman spectra in each instance could be used for "finger-printing" identification of the phases and their orientations.

Recommended Citation

Mao, H.; Hemley, R. J.; and Chao, E. C. T. (1987) "The Application of Micro-Raman Spectroscopy to Analysis and Identification of Minerals in Thin Section," Scanning Microscopy: Vol. 1: No. 2, Article 8.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/microscopy/vol1/iss2/8