Ferrosilite (FeSiO ₃ ): Synthesis at High Pressures and Temperatures

Abstract

The FeSiO(3) (ferrosilite) end member of the pyroxene series is not known as a pure mineral in nature and cannot be synthesized at atmospheric pressure. It is readily synthesized, however, at pressures from 18 to 45 kb and temperatures from 1150 degrees to 1400 degrees C. Its refractive indices approach those predicted for ferrosilite and it melts incongruently to an Fe, SiO(4)-rich liquid plus quartz.