Internal structure of zircon CL

Others

When irradiating a sample with electron beams, various signals are generated, some of which generate light (cathodoluminescence). Low-vacuum Hybrid Secondary Electron Detector (LHSED) has a PD mode that can acquire such cathodoluminescence-driven signals. This mode provides information different from SE and BE signals. This image shows zircon (ZrSiO4) acquired in PD mode. The zoning structure is supposed to be formed in relation to the content of trace impurities (U, Th, etc.) in the zircon during crystal growth process, as well as lattice defects present in the crystal. This can be said to play the role of the "annual ring" of the crystal. Detailed investigation will allow us to estimate the environment in which this crystal was situated at the time of its growth.