Four dimensional lithospheric evolution and controls on mineral system distribution in Neoarchean to Paleoproterozoic terranes. This project will resolve important questions about the links between the evolution and preservation of continents and important mineral deposits in Australia and West Africa between 2.7 and 1.8 billion years ago. The results will improve the understanding of a key period of Earth history and make a major contribution to mineral exploration.
Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE130100099
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$390,000.00
Summary
New horizons in geochemical isotopic analysis with a new-generation multicollector plasma mass spectrometer: towards unravelling the deep earth system. A new-generation plasma mass spectrometer will let us develop novel applications in geochemistry to better understand Earth processes. This will enhance Australian Geosciences’ high international profile, and help attract high-quality researchers to attack problems relevant to the Deep Earth Resources National Priority and mineral exploration.
Deep time in the deep Earth: using trace element diffusivities to constrain durations of deep Earth processes. Evaluation of deep Earth resources requires knowing how long geological processes took, some record of which is often preserved by gradients in the chemical compositions of minerals. Experiments at very high temperatures and pressures will determine how this evidence can be used to constrain the durations of a rich variety of geological processes.
Diamonds in ophiolite: recycling deep mantle into supra-subduction zones. This project aims to investigate whether the discovery of diamonds in oceanic rocks, known as ophiolites, is a global phenomenon. Even half a century after the introduction of plate tectonic theory, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding the fate of subducted lithosphere and Earth processes deep within the mantle. This project will use Australasian examples to test the hypothesis that diamonds are ubiquitous in the ma ....Diamonds in ophiolite: recycling deep mantle into supra-subduction zones. This project aims to investigate whether the discovery of diamonds in oceanic rocks, known as ophiolites, is a global phenomenon. Even half a century after the introduction of plate tectonic theory, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding the fate of subducted lithosphere and Earth processes deep within the mantle. This project will use Australasian examples to test the hypothesis that diamonds are ubiquitous in the mantle and occur widely in ophiolites. Results will have major implications for our understanding of how ocean crust grows and how rocks in the upper mantle form, as well as providing insight into how organic carbon is cycled from the seabed deep into the mantle before being returned back to Earth's surface.Read moreRead less