Figure 1: Photomicrographs and schematic illustrations of the evolution of the micro-reactors through time.
From: Effect of water activity on rates of serpentinization of olivine
Photomicrographs of SFI taken before the serpentinization reactions were initiated (0 days) and after 15, 30, 45 and 120 days of reaction time at 280 °C. The images show the same group of SFIs that had an initial salinity of 3.5 wt%. The numbers next to individual SFIs in the 15-, 30- and 45-day images represent the measured salinity in wt%. The image for 120 days shows magnetite in an SFI that had an initial salinity of 1 wt%. The reaction progress is shown schematically below the photomicrographs. Before reaction the fluid inclusions only contain an aqueous solution and a vapor phase. After 15 days at 280 °C, small crystals of brucite and serpentine appear. After 30 days, more crystals have formed. After 45 days, the fluid inclusion is nearly filled with crystals. After 120 days, magnetite crystals appear.
