A microscopic study of quartz evolution in arid areas

Halitim, A.; Robert, M.; Berrier, J.

Using optical and scanning electron microscopy, the morphology and nature of the surface of quartz grains in various environments and the relationships between quartz, calcite and palygorskite were examined. A dynamic system for silica in arid environments appears to exist. When quartz undergoes invasion by calcite, epigeny patterns may be produced.