CM-like Interplanetary Dust Particles in Lower Stratosphere During 1989 October and 1991 June/July

The stratospheric interplanetary dust particles L2005T12 and L2011O3 are linked to CM chondrite matrix. Particle L2005T12 is dominated by tabular grains of partially dehydrated greenalite-rich serpentine. Its amorphous matrix contains abundant smectite nanocrystals and annular Fe,Ni,S units. A uniquely stratified (partial) maghemite rim occurs only on S-rich parts of the matrix. Formation of this rim and Mg depletions in the matrix occurred during atmospheric entry heating of this particle. Particle L2011O3 has large iron sulfide and magnesiowustite grains in an amorphous low-Al, ferromagnesiosilica matrix. Hydrous crystallisation of this matrix produced ultrafine-grained smectites and disseminated iron sulfides. Atmospheric entry heating of both particles is indicated by the partial iron oxide rim, vesicular sulfides, and the scatter of matrix compositions due to loss of Mg. While many uncertainties remain, the high incidence of chondritic rough particles, which include an unknown amount of CM-like particles, in the lower stratosphere during 1984, 1989, and 1991 suggests annual variations in their abundances. The timing of lower stratospheric dust samplings is critical to collect these particles.