Geological applications of synchrotron radiation: magmas, fluids, ores and minerals

The Australian Synchrotron is a major new research facility available to Australian scientists. Synchrotron techniques will be used to investigate a range of pure and applied geological problems including the magmatic evolution of basalts, the transport of metals to form ore-deposits, and the effect of upper mantle processes on diamond stability. The interpretation of synchrotron data in geology is often hindered by the absence of appropriate reference materials but in this project standards will be experimentally prepared under conditions that simulate geological processes. The project also aims to promote the uptake of synchrotron methods by Australian earth scientists.