Carbonateja

Carbonateja is a fictional mineral used in speculative geology to illustrate carbonate-based framework materials. The name combines the carbonate unit with a fictional suffix, and various sources describe carbonateja as a family of minerals that incorporate carbonate (CO3) groups into a three-dimensional network stabilized by divalent metal cations.

Composition and structure: Carbonateja is described as having a carbonate framework in which CO3 groups link through M2+ cations such as calcium, magnesium, or iron. The resulting structure forms a crystal lattice that can feature channels or layered motifs, depending on the specific composition and synthesis conditions. Common crystal systems cited include monoclinic and trigonal.

Occurrence and formation: In fictional scenarios, carbonateja forms in hydrothermal environments where carbonate rocks interact with silicate-bearing fluids, or during metamorphic hydration of carbonate minerals under elevated temperature and pressure. Reported deposits are typically small, with crystals ranging from millimeters to centimeters.

Physical properties and potential applications: Descriptions assign a hardness around 4–5 on the Mohs scale, vitreous luster, and colors from pale green to gray. It is said to have a refractive index near 1.60–1.70 and to exhibit moderate cleavage along specific crystallographic planes. In speculative materials science, carbonateja is proposed for ion-exchange, catalysis, or decorative uses, though no commercially verified synthesis exists.

Research status and nomenclature: As a fictional mineral, carbonateja functions as a teaching example for discussing carbonate frameworks and mineral synthesis. In various texts, the properties and stability range of carbonateja are presented differently, reflecting world-building choices rather than a single established dataset. See also: carbonate minerals, framework materials, zeolites.