Cementicle

Cementicles are a natural phenomenon that occurs in limestone caves. They represent traces of cementation, which is carried out by calcium carbonates, magnesium and other calcium salts. Cementicoles are widespread and are found in many famous caves such as Chauvet Cave and Parchron Grotto Tweeddale.

Cementites are formed as a result of chemical reactions in which carbonates and other calcium salts accumulate in solutions of water and minerals. This process causes the water to become thicker and more viscous, but it remains soluble. This occurs due to the dissolution of calcium carbonates and other minerals containing calcium salts. As a result of this process, small crystals of carbonates are formed, which are then cemented together. Cements composed of carbonates (such as calcites) are the main components of most limestones. This helps to understand what chemical processes occur in caves and how they are related to the formation of cementite.

Cementirol appears constantly in natural formations. Carbonates seep through the formation and replenish it under pressure. Further in the cave environment, such accumulations, due to the reaction with carnotite, crystallize and interact into a single composition. Mineral formations occur as the cave develops. The conditions for their formation can be both natural phenomena and anthropogenic factors.