Analytical electron microscopy of extraterrestrial materials - Results from microtome sections of carbonaceous chondrites and interplanetary dust particlesThe paper describes a method for embedding, sectioning, and observing two types of extraterrestrial materials, including hydrated interplanetary dust particles (IDPs) and carbonaceous chondrite meteorites. The technique, which produces large thin areas suitable for both high-resolution imaging and thin-film microanalysis, was applied to study the petrology of the IDP Ames-DE C86-11, the Murchison carbonaceous chondrite matrix, and the Allende dark inclusion. The technique makes it possible to maintain delicate interfaces, boundaries, and phase relationships between grains. Because phases are held in place, layer lattice silicates and other minerals with strong preferred orientations can be viewed in any orientation, including the orientation normal to their basal planes.
Document ID
19880033072
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Blake, D. F. (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Bunch, T. E. (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Mardinly, A. J. (Lockheed Missiles and Space Co., Inc. Sunnyvale, CA, United States)