Na3Al3Si3O12

Na3Al3Si3O12, also known as sodium aluminum silicate, is a chemical compound with the formula Na3Al3Si3O12. It is a member of the feldspar group of minerals, which are common in igneous and metamorphic rocks. The mineral form of Na3Al3Si3O12 is known as albite, which is a tectosilicate mineral with a framework structure. Albite is typically colorless or white, but can also be found in shades of gray, brown, or green due to impurities.

The chemical structure of Na3Al3Si3O12 consists of a three-dimensional framework of silicon and oxygen tetrahedra, with aluminum and sodium ions occupying interstitial sites. The mineral is characterized by its low hardness on the Mohs scale, typically ranging from 6 to 6.5, and its perfect cleavage in two directions. Albite is often found in association with other feldspar minerals, such as orthoclase and microcline, as well as with quartz and mica.

Na3Al3Si3O12 has several industrial applications, including its use as a flux in ceramics and glass production, as well as in the manufacture of sodium aluminate and sodium silicate. It is also used as a filler in the production of plastics and rubber. In addition, albite has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of radioactive waste, as it has a high affinity for certain radioactive elements.

The mineral albite is named after the Latin word "albus," which means white, referring to its typical color. It was first described in 1800 by the German mineralogist Abraham Gottlob Werner. Albite is found in various locations around the world, including in the United States, Canada, and Europe.