Earth Materials
-
Sampling nanoparticles formed in an acid mine drainage system at the New Idria Mercury Mine in Northern California
-
Scanning Electron Microscope image of carbonate crystals
-
Microprobe Map
-
Thin section photo
Virginia Tech’s Department of Geosciences is engaged in cutting-edge collaborative research of synthetic, geologic, and biologic minerals. We employ advanced imaging, spectroscopic, scattering, and computational tools to characterize Earth solids ranging from nanosized particles to biomineral composites to rocks at conditions relevant to Earth’s surface and interior. We aim to discover and disseminate new scientific knowledge that will stimulate new understanding of complex Earth systems and opportunities for innovation of advanced materials and development of critical technologies.