Does SiO2 vapor oxidize carbon compounds in impact-induced vapor clouds?

Abstract

Chemical interaction between silicates and carbon compounds within impact vapor clouds is not understood well. The thermal decomposition of silicates within impact vapor clouds may affect the carbon chemistry within impact vapor clouds. In this study, we investigate the oxidation of carbon compounds by free oxygen released from SiO2 in vapor clouds using laser-pulse heating on SiO2-polyethylene targets. The results of these experiments are also compared with those with oxygen-bearing plastic material as a target in order to estimate the amount of oxygen used in chemical reaction with carbon.