Redox conditions in the earth's upper mantle and the implications for kimberlite petrigenesis formation and mantle metasomatism

This research will focus on investigating the oxidation state of the earth s upper mantle. This is critical for understanding a range of processes in the earth, including diamond formation and the genesis of kimberlites, rare and unusual volcanic rocks which transport diamonds from deep in the mantle to the surface. Sophisticated techniques of high-pressure experimentation combined with electron microprobe analysis of mineral phases from natural samples of the deep upper mantle, will be utilised. Research outcomes will include understanding of the variation in the mantle s oxidation state laterally, vertically and temporally and the effects this has on behaviour of fluids and melts.