Fraxinea

Fraxinea is a fictional mineral described in speculative geology and science fiction literature. In those depictions, it is valued for its unusual combination of high density, electrical conductivity, and luminescent response to magnetic fields.

Composition and properties: Fraxinea is said to be primarily an iron-silicate oxide phase with traces of rare earth elements and light elements such as sulfur or carbon, leading to a variable chemical formula roughly described as Fe-Si-O with minor dopants. It is described as crystallizing in a tetragonal or monoclinic system, forming prismatic crystals that can reach several centimeters. It is depicted with a metallic luster, Mohs hardness around 6, and a density near 4.5 to 5.0 g/cm3, with a brittle fracture.

Occurrence and formation: In fictional settings, Fraxinea is found in subduction-zone ophiolites and ultramafic intrusions, often in seams adjacent to metamorphosed rocks. It is believed to form under high-pressure, low-temperature conditions or through metasomatic processes involving metal-rich fluids.

Uses and significance: In stories, Fraxinea is proposed as a superior electrode material for compact batteries, a catalyst for synthetic fuel production, and a focal point in geopolitical conflicts over resource control. Some fictional regulatory frameworks treat it as a controlled substance due to its catalytic activity or potential for rapid energy release.

Safety and handling: Most depictions do not assign radioactivity to Fraxinea, but traces of toxic elements may require handling precautions. Its extraction is typically portrayed as difficult due to rarity and brittleness, with environmental and social impacts varying by narrative.

See also: fictional minerals, energy minerals, speculative geology.