In situ observation of the breakdown of magnetite (Fe3O4) to Fe4O5 and hematite at high pressures and temperatures

In situ synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction measurements using a Paris-Edinburgh pressure cell were performed to investigate the nature of the high-pressure breakdown reaction of magnetite (Fe3O4). Refinement of diffraction patterns reveals that magnetite breaks down via a disproportionation reaction to Fe4O5 and hematite (Fe2O3) rather than undergoing an isochemical phase transition. This result, combined with literature data indicates (1) that this reaction occurs at ~9.5-11 GPa and 973-1673 K, and (2) these two phases should recombine at yet higher pressures to produce an h-Fe3O4 phase.