ENVG 34800 - Earth Materials Microcharacterisation

Institution:

University of Notre Dame

Subject:

Environmental Geosciences

Description:

Taught as EART 3311 "Earth Materials Microcharacterisation" at host institution. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray (EMPA) and ion beam microanalysis are advanced microcharacterisation tools. Digital data is attainable down to the nanometre scale with these tools and it is used to characterise minerals and fossils in most earth science and environmental research areas. This unit covers the fundamentals of the current technology in this area and the direct applications to problem solving in the earth sciences and related areas. The theory covers the basics of electron and ion beam microscopy and digital imaging techniques, including basic image analysis, with an emphasis on the mineralogical applications in earth sciences. The SEM, ion probe and X-ray microanalysis theory is supported by interactive, multimedia software packages including 'Virtual SEM' and 'Virtual EDS'. Laboratory practicals are elective and project-based. Topics are selected to suit specific course and student interests. Projects include diamond indicator mineral analysis and evaluation, pressure and/or temperature estimation by determination and interpretation of mineral compositions (e.g. garnet-cpx or arsenopyrite), cathodoluminescence studies of carbonates and/or quartz to determine depositional histories of sediments/ore deposits, mineral modal analysis and/or bulk composition determination by analysis of backscattered electron images and electron imaging and identification of microfossils. Mineral dating (geochronology) projects by electron and ion probe techniques are also available (subject to ion probe availability). Successful students achieve formal certification in the operation of these facilities.

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.nd.edu

Phone Number:

(574) 631-5000

Regional Accreditation:

North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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