Synthesis of forsterite by periclase and silica gel chlorination

Abstract

In this work, forsterite was synthesized by thermal treatment in chlorine of a periclase and silica gel mixture. Calcination assays were carried out in Cl2/N2 and air atmospheres. The effects of temperature and reaction time on the reaction of synthesis were studied. The techniques used to characterize reagents and products were thermogravimetry (TG), differential thermal analysis (DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The experimental results showed that pure forsterite was obtained in Cl2/N2 atmosphere at 700°C for 60 minutes, while in air forsterite and enstatite were partially produced at 800°C for 60 minutes.