Permineralisering

Permineralisering is a geological process that occurs after an organism's death and burial. It is a form of fossilization where mineral-rich groundwater circulates through the porous spaces within the organism's tissues, such as bones, shells, or wood. As the water moves, dissolved minerals precipitate out of the solution and fill these empty spaces.

The minerals that commonly permineralize include silica (quartz), calcite (calcium carbonate), and pyrite (iron sulfide). Over time, the original organic material may decay and be replaced by the minerals, or it may remain alongside the mineral infill. This process preserves the fine details and three-dimensional structure of the original organism, making permineralized fossils valuable for scientific study.

Common examples of permineralized fossils include petrified wood, where the original cellulose of the wood is replaced by silica, and dinosaur bones, where the porous bone structure is filled with various minerals. Permineralization is a crucial mechanism for the fossil record, allowing us to understand the anatomy and diversity of past life. The rate and extent of permineralization depend on factors such as the composition of the groundwater, the original material of the organism, and the burial environment.