Project description
Unprecedented insight into magma nanoscale non-linear dynamics
Magma dynamics including magma "degassing" play a critical role in the transport of magma. Degassing, the formation of water-rich gas bubbles from the magma, is a driving force behind explosive volcanic eruptions. Crystals in the magma, even a very small volume of nano-sized crystals called nanolites, alter magma dynamics. This poorly understood phenomenon could be a primary modulator of explosive eruptions. The ERC-funded NANOVOLC project will pioneer in situ observations of nanolite formation that can occur in seconds to unravel its role in volcanic explosions. Observational studies will be accompanied by the development of an unprecedented experimental apparatus and an AI-supported numerical model of the non-linear dynamic volcanic processes.
Objective
Volcanism is virtually ubiquitous in space and time across the universe. Its explosive expression impacts planetary evolution, life and history on Earth. The brittle – molecular – failure of magma is central to trigger explosive eruptions and yet, its occurrence is elusive to us.
The mechanistic understanding of magma dynamics, combined with monitoring activities, form the basis for forecasting eruptions. This is central for modelling the impact on volcanic eruptions and determining the risk scenario in populated areas and along flight routes. A lack of understanding of magma failure thus hampers our ability to study the local and global impact of volcanism. It is only in the last years that nanosized crystals (nanolites) have been exponentially identified in products of explosive eruptions. Pioneering experiments and in situ observations of magmas dynamics, I showed that nanolite formation can occur within seconds and has the potential to set the conditions for brittle magma fragmentation. It is time to observe in situ, under volcanic conditions the formation of nanolites and unravel their role in triggering explosive eruptions. This cutting-edge approach requires interdisciplinary research combined with technological advances. Through NANOVOLC, I will integrate earth sciences with materials science and artificial intelligence to lift the veil on the process of nanolite formation and its role in magma failure. I will deliver a numerical model of magma ascent and eruption to forecast and quantify the impacts of explosive eruptions. To this end, I will i) perform in situ observations of nanolite formation in magmas, ii) build a unique magma fragmentation apparatus that will push the experimental boundaries explored so far, and iii) use artificial intelligence to support numerical model of non-linear volcanic processes. Beyond volcanology, NANOVOLC will provide fundamental understanding of nanocrystal formation in technical glasses, relevant to glass-ceramic industry.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC) Main Programme
Funding Scheme
ERC - Support for frontier research (ERC)Host institution
00185 Roma
Italy