Nierite
Silicon nitride, some grains of which are stardust from exploding stars.
Key facts
- Formula
- Si3N4
- Family
- Phosphides, carbides, nitrides and silicides
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
- First described
- chondrites, 1995
Nierite was described in 1995 from enstatite and ordinary chondrites. It is named after Alfred Nier, the American physicist who pioneered the measurement of isotopes and of meteorite ages.
What it is
Nierite is a compound of silicon and nitrogen. Industrially it is a strong ceramic used in engine parts and bearings.
Where it is found
Most grains in meteorites formed in the Solar System, in enstatite chondrites. A few presolar silicon nitride grains have isotope signatures that show they formed in supernovae.
How it is recognised
It is microscopic and identified by analysis, often after dissolving the rest of the meteorite.
Did you know?
Alfred Nier built mass spectrometers that measured the age of the Earth and of meteorites.
Silicon nitride ball bearings are used in high-speed machinery.