Limonite
This is a thin film of limonite collected from transformer
oil. Its lacy shape indicates a very early stage in the
corrosion process.
Transmitted Circular Polarized Light and Reflected Darkfield Illumination
Definition/Function:
Limonite is FeO-OH-nH2O. It varies in color from very pale yellow to
orange-brown, depending
on the amount of water in the matrix. In oil filled systems the form of the limonite
particle reflects the shape of the interface between the
oil and the water layer. Limonite is amorphous or cryptocrystalline but as it looses
more water the nuclei convert to a more evident crystal
structure. There are at least five forms of FeO-OH that have distinctive crystal
structures. They include lepidocrocite, goethite, and others.
Significance in the Environment:
Characteristic Features:
Associated Particles:
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