Physics Maths Engineering
Hydroxyl-stretching region in the Raman broad scans on minerals of the vivianite group
Abstract
Vivianite is a hydrated iron phosphate mineral (Fe3(PO4)2·8H2O), crystallized in a monoclinic system. It is the endmember of a mineral series known as the vivianite group, where minerals have the general formula A3(XO4)2·8H2O, A is a divalent metal cation and X is phosphorus P or arsenic As. Today, vivianite is attracting interest as a promising material for recovering phosphorous from wastewaters. In fact, the presence in wastewater sludges of soluble iron and phosphorus can lead to vivianite formation. As a crystal, it is a naturally occurring Van der Walls material. It can be easily characterized by means of Raman and infrared spectroscopies. Here we will consider the Raman spectroscopy, precisely that related to the hydroxyl-stretching region. We will propose the deconvolutions in q-Gaussian functions of spectra from RRUFF database, comparing the obtained results with those available from literature. Besides vivianite, we will consider also baricite and bobierrite for comparison (baricite and bobierrite are two other members of the vivianite group). About the hydroxyl-stretching region and the use of q-Gaussians, we take the chance to continue a discussion regarding the Raman spectroscopy of water, discussion that we started in March 2024.
Key Questions
What is the main focus of this study?
The study focuses on analyzing the hydroxyl-stretching region in the Raman spectra of minerals belonging to the vivianite group, utilizing q-Gaussian functions for spectral deconvolution.
Which minerals are examined in this research?
The research examines vivianite, baricite, and bobierrite, which are members of the vivianite mineral group.
What methodology is employed for spectral analysis?
The study employs deconvolution of Raman spectra using q-Gaussian functions, comparing the results with existing literature data.
What is the significance of using q-Gaussian functions in this context?
Utilizing q-Gaussian functions allows for a more nuanced analysis of the Raman spectra, particularly in the hydroxyl-stretching region, facilitating a deeper understanding of the spectral characteristics of these minerals.
How does this study contribute to the field of mineral spectroscopy?
This study extends the discussion on Raman spectroscopy of water and related minerals, providing insights into the spectral properties of vivianite group minerals and demonstrating the application of q-Gaussian deconvolution in spectral analysis.
