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
The geochemistry of rare earth elements in carbonate melts. This project aims to determine why deposits of rare earth elements, which are critical for modern devices and technologies such as phones, tablets and plasma screens, are associated with carbonate magmas. The global supply of these critical metals is geopolitically unstable and, although Australia has significant reserves, there is very limited production. By improving our understanding of the geochemical behaviour of the rare earths th ....The geochemistry of rare earth elements in carbonate melts. This project aims to determine why deposits of rare earth elements, which are critical for modern devices and technologies such as phones, tablets and plasma screens, are associated with carbonate magmas. The global supply of these critical metals is geopolitically unstable and, although Australia has significant reserves, there is very limited production. By improving our understanding of the geochemical behaviour of the rare earths this project aims to develop new reverse-engineering methods for their extraction, which will improve the security of supply of these elements and enhance Australia's role in high-tech industries. The project will enhance the profitability of the Australian resources sector through improved extraction economics and will secure the supply of these critical metals for Australian high-tech industries and export. The outcomes will be targeted initially at junior resource companies that are not yet profitable.Read moreRead less