Xenophyllite
A sodium iron phosphate from phosphate inclusions in an iron meteorite.
Key facts
- Formula
- Na4Fe7(PO4)6
- Family
- Phosphates
- Crystal system
- Triclinic
- First described
- the Augustinovka iron meteorite, 2006
Xenophyllite was approved as a new mineral in 2006 from the Augustinovka iron meteorite, found in the Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine. It is known only from meteorites.
What it is
Xenophyllite is a phosphate of sodium and iron, related to galileiite and the other sodium-bearing iron phosphates of iron meteorites. Laboratory studies of it have looked at how easily its sodium ions move, a property that matters for battery materials.
Where it is found
It occurs as small grains in phosphate inclusions in the metal of the Augustinovka iron.
How it is recognised
It is identified by microprobe analysis and X-ray diffraction of tiny grains.
Did you know?
Sodium iron phosphates are being studied as cheaper alternatives to lithium in rechargeable batteries.
Iron meteorites contain a surprising variety of phosphates, though each forms only tiny grains.