The effect of bacteria on plagioclase weathering using TEM analysis

Abstract

We investigated the effect of soil bacteria on plagioclase weathering, especially its crystallinity, morphology, and chemical composition, by using TEM-EDS analysis. Some albite fragments attached with bacteria for 4 days were observed. The SAED patterns show that the surface crystallinity of the albite particles was maintained. The Na/Si ratios in the albite particle attached with bacteria were relatively lower than those of pure albite. The results suggest that Na can be leached by the bacteria from the albite particles which still maintain its crystallinity and morphology.