$118,795; NSF Petrology and Geochemistry (CH)

Diffusion studies in baddeleyite and zircon
Principal Investigator: Heather Watson, associate professor of physics and astronomy; Senior Personnel: Scott LaBrake, senior lecturer of physics and astronomy

This project focuses on the diffusion behavior of key chemical elements in zircon (ZrSiO4) and baddeleyite (ZrO2). These two minerals are crucial to geochronometry, the measurement of rocks, meteorites, and geological events. Zircon, known for its robustness and survival of geological processes, provides valuable insight into Earth's history, with some samples preserving information on geological processes that occurred up to 4.4 billion years ago. While the diffusion of several chemical elements in Zircon have been studied extensively, some elements within Zircon have yet to be thoroughly investigated.

In contrast, though baddeleyite analysis has the potential to yield information complementary to that gain by zircon analysis, minimal data on diffusion in baddeleyite exists. This research aims to fill these gaps by studying the diffusion of various elements in both minerals using advanced ion beam techniques. Understanding the diffusion behavior of zircon and baddeleyite is critical to interpreting the timing of geological events, as well as evaluating past chemical environments and thermal histories.

Collaborating institutions include Union College (Schenectady, NY) and the State University of New York at Albany (Albany, NY). The research will not only contribute to the refinement and application of accelerator-based ion beam techniques in diffusion studies and generate data that can be used by a wide range of scientists across fields, but will also provide research opportunities for undergraduates and educational opportunities for local high school students. Undergraduates contributing to this research will gain experience in preparing samples, synthesizing crystals, conducting experiments, using various analytical methods, interpreting data, and presenting results at a professional research conference. Through this project, local students in grades 7-12 participating in Union’s Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) will be introduced to Earth Science concepts and materials characterization techniques. Together, these efforts will foster scientific advancement while preparing the next generation STEM workforce through early engagement in the geosciences.