Getting baryte at Grube Clara
In our experiments we will simulate the non-melting restite with baryte. In naturally partly molten rocks like migmatites the melting starts in interstitials and segregates due to gravitational forces, filter pressing or volume change at least forming larger bodies. The restit acts like a framework containing the small ponds of melts. At a certain grade of melting connections between the single melt lenses appear and channels will promote the segregation and transportation of the melt.
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| sketch of a framework of restite (white crytalls) and the melt (grey matrix) |
In our experiments it is therefor important to have a grain-supported matrix which will simulate such a framework where melt can develop in interstitials. For that reason we decided to get fresh barite from the Grube Clara in the Black Forest as baryte with a certain grain size is not available on the market.
Fortunately all members of our structural group were willing to join our little excursion to the Grube Clara and that's how we collected about 200 kg of baryte (and some other stuff).
At this occasion many thanks to the Sachtleben AG, the owners of the Grube Clara who were grantfully helping us with our unusual request.
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