Objective
The fragmentation mechanisms of low viscosity magmas such as kimberlite and carbonatite remain enigmatic despite comprehensive research on their more silicious counterparts. In order to understand how and why they erupt we must look at their pyroclastic deposits. The little that is known about the fragmentation of these low-viscosity magmas suggests that they behave differently to the higher viscosity magmas such as basalts and rhyolites, implying there may be something unique about the physical properties of kimberlites and carbonatites such as their low silica and high volatile contents. Some basaltic pyroclasts show affinities with kimberlite pyroclasts suggesting there may be a continuum of fragmentation styles related to changes in viscosity of the magma. This research proposal seeks to fill that gap in our current knowledge by establishing the spectrum of pyroclast types and unique parameters of the explosive eruption of ultra-low viscosity magma. In order to fill this gap in our knowledge I propose to investigate the pyroclast morphologies of kimberlite using a world class collection housed at the University of British Columbia. I then intend to gather a range of moderate to low viscosity pyroclasts from Hawaiian basalts and Italian carbonatites and compare and contrast the range of pyroclasts found. On establishing that there is a range of pyroclast shapes and internal morphologies developed by the different magma types I propose a series of analogue experiments, undertaken at Bristol University, to attempt to recreate the range of pyroclast morphologies observed in nature and assess the physical properties of the magma that influence the formation of the different styles of pyroclasts. The proposed research will not only fill a significant gap in knowledge but will be the first research to assess in any detail how pyroclast morphologies and internal features relate to magma properties such as viscosity and crystal content. The research will help to iden
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
FP7-PEOPLE-2009-IOF
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Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Coordinator
BS8 1QU Bristol
United Kingdom
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.