Bands, spherulites and 3D zonation in the carbonation of a slaked lime gel matrix

We investigate the formation of CaCO3 zonation using a displacement reaction in the solid phase through the diffusion of aqueous carbonic acid into a slaked lime [Ca(OH)(2)] gel putty. The obtained calcium carbonate gives rise to a variety of mosaic patterns, and interesting zonation in 3D. The system also displays Liesegang banding. We use pH measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), for the characterization of the various differentiated zones within the pattern, and the crystalline forms therein. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study investigates the formation of CaCO3 zonation through a displacement reaction in the solid phase. The obtained calcium carbonate shows diverse mosaic patterns, interesting 3D zonation, and Liesegang banding. Various differentiated zones and crystalline forms within the patterns are characterized using pH measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and powder X-ray diffraction (XRD).