Barringerite
A phosphorus-rich iron–nickel phosphide first found in a pallasite.
Key facts
- Formula
- (Fe,Ni)2P
- Family
- Phosphides, carbides, nitrides and silicides
- Crystal system
- Hexagonal
- First described
- the Ollague pallasite, 1969
Barringerite was described in 1969 from the Ollague pallasite of Bolivia. It is named after Daniel Barringer, who argued that Meteor Crater in Arizona was made by an impact. It has since been found in rare rocks on Earth.
What it is
Barringerite contains more phosphorus than schreibersite, with two metal atoms for each phosphorus atom. It forms where phosphorus was abundant and oxygen scarce.
Where it is found
It occurs at the edges of metal next to olivine in the Ollague pallasite and in a few other meteorites. On Earth it has been found in rocks altered by burning in the Hatrurim Formation of Israel and Jordan.
How it is recognised
It is identified by its higher phosphorus content and its crystal structure.
Did you know?
Daniel Barringer spent decades drilling at Meteor Crater looking for a giant buried iron mass that was never there.
Barringerite and schreibersite can form together where phosphorus content varies.