kilotusaite

Kilotusaite is a rare mineral discovered in 2016, named after the kilo-Tesla unit of magnetic field strength. It is a member of the merrillite group, which includes minerals with the general formula M2(Si,Al)2O6. Kilotusaite is characterized by its unique magnetic properties, with a saturation magnetization of approximately 1.6 kilotesla, making it one of the most magnetic minerals known to science.

The mineral was first identified in a meteorite found in the Sahara Desert. It occurs as small, dark crystals and is typically associated with other minerals such as troilite and daubréelite. Kilotusaite's crystal structure is monoclinic, and it exhibits a distinct cleavage along the (100) plane.

Due to its rarity and unique properties, kilotusaite has garnered significant interest from the scientific community. Its discovery has contributed to a better understanding of the magnetic properties of minerals and the processes involved in the formation of meteorites. However, kilotusaite's rarity and the challenges associated with its extraction make it a valuable but elusive mineral.