Aqueous Geochemistry Lab

Development of chemical sensors to measure dissolved gases and pH of fluids issuing from hydrothermal vents on the seafloor. This work is supported by the National Science Foundation and entails submersible dives with DSV ALVIN to vents on the East Pacific Rise and Juan de Fuca Ridge (see picture on right).
The origin of dissolved gases and pH in hydrothermal vents in Yellowstone Lake, Wyoming. This research is being carried out in collaboration with the United States Geological Survey.
Experimental investigation on abiotic hydrocarbon formation with mineral catalysts in subseafloor hydrothermal systems.
Collaborative investigation with A-L Reysenbach (Portland State University) on experimental controls on biogeochemical processes at deep-sea vents.

Experimental and theoretical constraints on the chemical evolution of hydrothermal vent fluids at mid-ocean ridges. Recent studies have focused on (1) Controls and heat and mass transfer in ultramafic-hosted hydrothermal systems; and (2) Solubility controls on redox and metal mobility in subseafloor hydrothermal systems. (See recent publications)

The graduate program in Aqueous Geochemistry at the University of Minnesota specifically involves the role of fluids in geochemical and biogeochemical processes at a wide range of temperatures and pressures. For some time now our group has investigated the role of seawater derived hydrothermal fluids in rock-fluid interaction within the oceanic crust, and biogeochemical processes at hydrothermal vents in subareal and submarine settings. Presently active research projects include the following:

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This document was last modified on Wednesday, 04-April-2007.