Pronunciation: [dˈɔːsənˌa͡ɪt] (IPA) 
Dawsonite is a mineral that has the chemical formula NaAlCO3(OH)2. The spelling of the word "Dawsonite" is based on the surname of the Canadian geologist, George Mercer Dawson, who first identified the mineral. The IPA phonetic transcription of "Dawsonite" is /ˈdɑːsənaɪt/. The stress is on the first syllable "DAW", and the "o" in "Dawson" is pronounced as "aw" (/ɑː/). "ite" at the end of the word indicates that it is a mineral.
Dawsonite is a mineral that occurs naturally in various geological formations. It belongs to the carbonate mineral group and is chemically composed of sodium aluminum carbonate, with the chemical formula NaAl(CO3)2(OH)2. The mineral derives its name from the locality where it was first discovered, Dawson in Yukon, Canada.
Dawsonite typically forms as a secondary mineral through the alteration of primary minerals under specific conditions. It is commonly found in alkaline environments, such as carbonate-rich sedimentary rocks, hydrothermal veins, and geothermal fields. The mineral may also occur as a precipitate in highly alkaline saline lakes.
In terms of physical characteristics, Dawsonite generally appears as small, colorless to white crystals or as powdery aggregates. Its crystal structure is monoclinic, and it typically exhibits a vitreous to pearly luster. The hardness of Dawsonite ranges between 3.5 and 4.5 on the Mohs scale.
Due to its aluminum and sodium content, Dawsonite can have various industrial applications. It is sometimes utilized as a commercial source of aluminum, particularly in areas where bauxite, the common aluminum ore, is scarce. It may also act as a catalyst or be used in the manufacturing of specialty ceramics, glasses, and detergents.
Furthermore, Dawsonite is of interest to researchers in the field of carbon capture and storage (CCS). Its ability to selectively adsorb carbon dioxide (CO2) has raised possibilities for its utilization in capturing and storing CO2 emissions from industrial processes, including power plants.
The word Dawsonite is derived from the name of the Canadian geologist Sir John William Dawson (1820-1899). He was a renowned scientist and educator who made significant contributions to the study of geology and paleontology. Dawson discovered the mineral Dawsonite in 1874 while analyzing rock samples from Nova Scotia, Canada. In honor of his discovery, the mineral was named after him, resulting in the term Dawsonite.
