After years of repeated attempts, geologists have finally succeeded in creating the mineral dolomite in laboratory conditions, mimicking the natural conditions that foster its formation—a significant breakthrough from researchers at the University of Michigan and Hokkaido University. This achievement not only reveals a long-standing geological mystery but also paves the way for the industry to create new crystalline materials and minerals.
The distinctive qualities of dolomite as a mineral were first classified by the Swiss naturalist Nicolas de Saussure in 1792, known for its composition of calcium magnesium carbonate. It was famously used in ancient Roman buildings and is admired for its stunning white, brown, gray, and pink crystals.
Today, dolomite's uses range from a decorative stone to applications in the smelting of iron and steel, refined glass production, and economically as a petroleum reservoir.
The scientific breakthrough lies in the ability to manufacture dolomite in labs by simulating the formation of a stable crystal lattice at the atomic level. Unlike previous attempts, the innovative methodology takes into account dynamic changes in atomic structure over time.
The method involves using a seed crystal of dolomite, immersing it in a solution of calcium and magnesium, and then exposing it to an electron beam, radiating it 4,000 times over two hours.
This process splits the solution, resulting in an acid that removes unstable spots while preserving stable ones. Subsequently, the vacancies and empty regions within the crystalline structure are rapidly filled by magnesium and calcium atoms depositing from the solution, thus forming the fundamental rows of atoms that later constitute the dolomite mineral.
The discovered solution for creating dolomite presents a new paradigm in engineering and the production of crystalline materials, departing from traditional methods that sought to slowly develop flaw-free materials. The theory suggests that it's possible to rapidly create materials free of defects by periodically dissolving imperfections during the growth process.
Researchers believe that anticipated applications could greatly benefit various modern technologies, such as semiconductors, solar panels, batteries, and other advanced technological applications.
