Vitreous state in nature—Origin and properties

摘要: Abstract Vitreous materials are quite routinely found in natural settings. Most of them aluminosilicates, which often occur large deposits. Considering the geological formations naturally occurring vitreous aluminosilicates found, they have generally remained stable for more than 1 Ma on earth's surface, even different and climatic environments. These non-crystalline solids played a very important role development ancient human civilizations, long before introduction metallic tools. Today, however, properties glasses interest to mankind completely reasons. For example, industrial used today encapsulating toxic wastes, especially radioactive waste, remains active centuries or more, order prevent unwanted transfer harmful environment. The chemical compositions industrially produced part from glasses. Little is quantitatively known about stability over periods time (>10,000 years). However, physical aluminosilicate extend time. advancement technological design at least minimize melt down waste during encapsulation process currently major challenge, using composition. Brecciated glass, frequently settings, provides special clue possibility producing by sintering glass fragments without melting cullets. It essential cullets because has potential chemically reacting with waste. This paper summarizes geological, chemical, facts concerning glasses, seeks establish recognized database further research domain understanding glass-forming processes that nature. Furthermore, authors hope stimulate into utilization resources solve problem storing safely. Major trace element data been collected past 100 years. constitute sufficient basis characterization More information elements not required, understand these materials. On other hand, gaps compositional exist where related components concerned: e.g., case “water-species”, its forms bonding silicates oxygen (oxygen fugacity), CO 2 -, sulphur - hydrocarbons (methane)-, hydrogen-, chlorine-and fluorine-species. All significant impact when present only minor quantities. Glass textures crystal morphologies reflect nucleation growth matrix cooling reheating cycles thoroughly understood. In nature, led formation those production genetic conditions under occurs permit differentiation between magmatic metamorphic solids. Sedimentary biogenetic also contribute