Fig. 4: Schematic diagram showing the implantation and outgassing of H-bearing species in weathered ilmenite rims, compared with the silicate phases. | Nature Communications

Fig. 4: Schematic diagram showing the implantation and outgassing of H-bearing species in weathered ilmenite rims, compared with the silicate phases.

From: Widespread ilmenite contributions to the surface water cycle in lunar Procellarum KREEP Terrane

Fig. 4

a Due to SW implantation, the Fe-O and Ti-O bonds on ilmenite surfaces are destroyed, resulting in the formation of defects, vesicles, and npFe0 particles. The SW-implanted H can be trapped in the defects and vesicles, and then H combines with O to form OH/H2O. We speculate that random impacts and diurnal temperature variations lead to a significant loss of H-bearing species, leaving tiny OH/H2O in the weathered rims. b The space-weathered silicate rims contain fewer vesicles, npFe0 particles, and defects.

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