The effect of intensive grinding on the crystal structure of dolomite

The structural changes caused by mechanical forces regarding dolomite as well as its 'chemical compounds',calcite and magnesite, were investigated by complex analytical methods: infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis and determination of specific surface areas and heats of solution. 1/12, 1/6, 1, 2, 4, 6 and 10 h grinding experiments were carried out in an AGO I planetary mill. The results obtained showed that among the carbonates, only dolomite suffers considerable structural deformations during the applied grinding procedures. A 'loose' crystal structure is developed resulting from the degree of distortion of 'magnesite-type' lattice planes being increased with grinding time.