Can crystal imperfections alter the petrophysical properties of halite minerals?

The internal structure of two Messinian halite crystals belonging to the white and transparent facies examined in order to investigate how the presence, amount and distribution of fluid inclusions (FIs) and voids, could affect petrophysical properties of halite crystals. In this investigation, standard petrographic techniques and geomechanical tests were used in conjunctions with synchrotron radiation X-ray and computed microtomography. The computed microtomography allows a high-resolution 3D reconstruction of the inner part of the crystals and the identification of three phases: solid (halite), liquid (FIs), and air (voids). The different distribution and amount of these components produce an important variability in petrophysical properties in both samples, in terms of porosity, density, Young's modulus and mechanical strength. These data differ from those reported in the literature in which halite is mainly considered as a homogenous material with almost constant values of petrophysical parameters. This innovative approach could open new scenario on the halite investigation mainly for geotechnical studies applied to mining, construction and civil engineering, management of mineral resources, groundwater, geological and environmental risks, underground space for urban and industrial use.