Temperature oscillation modulated self-assembly of periodic concentric layered magnesium carbonate microparticles.

ABSTRACT: Intriguing patterns of periodic, concentric, layered, mineral microstructure are present in nature and organisms, yet they have elusive geneses. We hypothesize temperature oscillation can be an independent factor that causes the self-assembly of such patterns in mineral phases synthesized in solution. Static experiments verify that rhythmic concentric multi-layered magnesium carbonate microhemispheres can be synthesized from bicarbonate solution by temperature oscillation, without use of a chemical template, additive or gel-diffusion system. Appropriate reactant concentration and initial pH value can restrain the competitive growth of other mineral generations. Polarized light microscopy images indicate the microhemispheres are crystalline and the crystallinity increases with incubation ti

SUBMITTER: Li S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3919819 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature