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Transmission Electron Microscopy of Non-Etched Presolar Silicon CarbideOur solar system formed from nuclei produced in earlier generations of stars. Mixing in the proto-solar nebula isotopically homogenized most of this material, but some grains, called presolar grains, retain their original isotopic composition. The isotopic properties of presolar SiC grains indicate that most of the grains formed in the outflows of carbon-rich Asymptotic Giant Branch (AGB) stars. The microstructure of these presolar grains reflects the conditions of the dust formation and subsequent alteration. Early microstructural studies of SiC grains obtained by acid dissolution from meteorites show that most isotopically anomalous SiC grains have the face-centered cubic b- SiC structure. However, Daulton et al. have shown that a small fraction of sub-micron presolar SiC grains are of the hexagonal 2H polytype (a-SiC). Although the harsh chemical treatments of these grains does not alter their crystal structure, significant alteration of the surface morphology of the grains due to the acid treatments has been observed. In addition, the acid treatments may preferentially remove cracked or fissured grains, and possible sub-grains, such as graphite. By studying SiC grains isolated by physical separation and found in situ, we attempt to obtain a more complete analysis of presolar SiC microstructures, including the surface morphology, in order to address the formation and processing history of the grains. In our prior work, we reported on one in situ SiC grain (hereafter CBIS1). Here we present results from two additional grains, one in situ, and one prepared as a physical separate.
Document ID
20030111529
Acquisition Source
Headquarters
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Stroud, Rhonda M.
(Naval Research Lab. Washington, DC, United States)
Nittler, Larry R.
(Naval Research Lab. Washington, DC, United States)
Alexander, Conel M. O'D.
(Carnegie Institution of Washington Washington, DC, United States)
Bernatowicz, Thomas J.
(Washington Univ. Seattle, WA, United States)
Messenger, Scott R.
(Washington Univ. Seattle, WA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2003
Publication Information
Publication: Lunar and Planetary Science XXXIV
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG5-4328
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.
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