Pyrolysis of Precambrian kerogens: constraints and capabilities

Precambrian kerogens are currently considered to be the primary candidates for the search of biochemical fossils. Degradation of kerogens by relatively "mild" pyrolysis techniques, such as under high vacuum, can liberate indicative structural moieties which were incorporated in, and perhap...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of molecular evolution 1982-01, Vol.18 (3), p.217-220
Main Author: Nagy, B
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Biological Evolution
Fossils
Hot Temperature
Methods
Paleontology
Space life sciences
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Summary:Precambrian kerogens are currently considered to be the primary candidates for the search of biochemical fossils. Degradation of kerogens by relatively "mild" pyrolysis techniques, such as under high vacuum, can liberate indicative structural moieties which were incorporated in, and perhaps shielded by, these solid and highly condensed, basically aromatic substances. It is necessary to observe analytical constraints (sample size and shape, temperature, pressure, time, etc.) in order to prevent an overabundant yield of secondary pyrolyzates (inter- and intramolecular rearrangements) which can prevent kerogen characterization. Potential biochemical fossils have been found in Precambrian kerogens. Demonstratable syngenetic biochemical fossils are expected after kerogen diagenesis and catagenesis is understood in sufficient detail, and when pyrolysis is augmented by multiple, improved analytical techniques.
ISSN:0022-2844
1432-1432
DOI:10.1007/BF01733049