2P X-RAY ABSORPTION OF TITANIUM IN MINERALS

Ti 2p X-ray absorption spectra for a series of minerals have been measured. Crystal field multiplet calculations can explain the spectral shape. The asymmetry of the e(g) peak is shown to be related to distortions of the Ti(IV) octahedron. It is found, theoretically as well as experimentally, that the absorption spectra are more sensitive to tetragonal distortions than to trigonal distortions. A number of silicate minerals and metamict minerals containing titanium are measured and Ti(III) has not been observed in any of these minerals. A comparison is made to the 1 s X-ray absorption, and the potential of both for the study of minerals is discussed.