Oikeine

Oikeine is a fictional mineral that appears in several speculative fiction works as an energy-dense material with unique physical properties. The term is used across different narratives; there is no canonical, real-world substance named oikeine.

In most depictions, oikeine is described as a transition-metal silicate-hydride hybrid with high stability at low temperatures and high energy density exceeding that of conventional fuels by orders of magnitude. It is commonly portrayed as forming under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in planetary mantles or deep-sea hydrothermal environments on rocky or ocean worlds.

Physical properties are variable across authors, but common traits include a metallic to pearlescent luster, Mohs hardness around 6 to 7, and strong magnetic or superconducting properties at cryogenic temperatures. Some stories attribute a unique radiative signature enabling non-contact detection.

Occurrence and extraction: oikeine is typically described as rare and localized to specific planetary bodies or asteroid belts. Mining is depicted as technologically demanding, often requiring autonomous drilling rigs, high-pressure containment, and on-site refinement to stabilize reactive surfaces.

Applications: In-universe uses include high-density energy storage, propulsion catalysts, and advanced electronics. Its fictional value often drives political or economic conflict over access to sources.

See also: fictional minerals, energy-dense materials, speculative metallurgy.

As a fictional element, oikeine has no real-world counterpart.