Characterization of the boron profile and coordination in altered glass layers by EEL spectroscopy

Electron energy-loss spectroscopy was used to characterize the boron profile and its coordination (BIII BIV), along complex alteration layer of glass samples altered for 511 days at 50 °C in solution containing FeCl2, MgCl2 and/or CaCl2. To reach this goal, impact both TEM operating conditions sample preparation on determination first studied using mineralogical pristine glasses reference samples. Then, concentration profiles were characterized layer. These found be S-shaped with a thickness around forty nanometers. The proportion BIII decrease total (from gel layer), which suggests higher bonding strength BIV bonds than that under conditions. findings are tremendous interest advance further understanding mechanisms.