Scientists from the University of Michigan and Hokkaido University have successfully grown dolomite in the laboratory for the first time, ending a 200-year geological puzzle.
How dolomite forms in nature now explained
The breakthrough came from understanding that dolomite’s crystal structure, made of alternating calcium and magnesium layers, often forms with atomic defects when grown in water. These defects leisurely growth to a near halt, with a single ordered layer taking up to 10 million years to form under static conditions.
Why natural cycles allow dolomite to accumulate
Researchers found that water exposure dissolves unstable, misplaced atoms, acting as a natural reset mechanism. Rainfall or tidal changes in nature repeatedly flush away these defects, allowing properly ordered layers to build over time.
How atomic simulations enabled the lab breakthrough
Using software developed at U-M’s PRISMS Center, the team modeled atomic interactions by calculating energy for symmetric crystal arrangements and predicting others, drastically reducing the computing power needed to simulate dolomite growth at the atomic level.
What is dolomite and where is it found?
Dolomite is a mineral composed of calcium magnesium carbonate, common in rock formations older than 100 million years, including the Dolomite mountains in Italy, Niagara Falls, and Utah’s Hoodoos.
Why did it take so long to grow dolomite in a lab?
Previous attempts failed because lab conditions did not account for the natural dissolution of defective atomic layers by water cycles, which are essential for dolomite to grow beyond the initial blocked stage.