Topic 1:
Raman Spectroscopy Database
Creation of a new Raman Spectroscopy database with the software "KnowItAll" (LabSpec, Horiba). Minerals of all classes and groups will be partly obtained from our collections to measure standard Raman spectra which will be used to identify quickly minerals in samples under investigation of any kind (natural or artificial). In addition, spectra from other databases of excellent quality will be added to the newly developed database. The candidate will be trained in the analytical technique of Raman spectroscopy, and will perform abundant analyses. The final database will be of major interest to Raman spectroscopic investigations in general.
Supervisor: Ronald J. Bakker
Topic 1:
Salt-hydrates in fluid inclusions
Mineral crystals may contain abundant inclusions, which are difficult to characterize with microscopic methods. Partly these inclusions contain a fluid phase that can be analyzed with Raman spectroscopy. This fluid phase is used to determine formation conditions of the host minerals, for example ore mineralizations. The fluid is usually a mixture of water and salts. The salts can be identified with Raman after formation of salt-hydrates at low temperatures. The candidate will detect and analyze in synthetic and natural samples different types of salt hydrates, and make a comparison with literature. Knowledge of these spectra is important for the determination of major cations (Na, Ca, Mg) dissolved in fluid inclusions.
Supervisor: Ronald J. Bakker
Topic 2:
Fluid Inclusions within the Troodos Ophiolite complex (Cyprus)
Fluids play an important role in the development of the ophiolitic complex in Cyprus (Troodos). This fluid is partly preserved within inclusions in minerals. The properties of these fluids are important parameters in understanding the geological evolution of this ophiolitic sequence. This fluid will be analyzed with different methods: microscopy, microthermometry, Raman spectroscopy, from different rock types, such as ultramafic rock, gabbros, and plagio-granites.
Supervisor: Ronald J. Bakker