A semi-empirical model for thermal decomposition of carbonates and its application to astrobiology

We review the basis of a semi-empirical model of carbonate decomposition developed by the authors, shortly discussing numerous previous theories. Then, the model is applied to the modeling of a scenario of matter transport from space to the surface of planets embedded into sub-mm mineral grains, with the correction of the so-called additional enthalpy, coming from the experiments. Having magnesium and calcium carbonates as mineral phases and the atmosphere of Earth and Mars as environments, the chemical-physical history of grains entering at different angles and speeds is discussed. The results are compared with those obtained previously and new evaluations of the most promising scenarios are formulated.