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Natrocarbonatites: are they unique, or are they key to understanding how volcanoes erupt igneous carbonate from the Earth's mantle?

Cel

We aim to establish whether the Oldoinyo Lengai volcano, Tanzania is unique in erupting na-rich "natrocarbonatite", or is representative of other carbonatites. As the only active carbonatite volcano, Lengai has been the subject of many studies but whether it truly represents other carbonatites is key to understanding one part of the C cycle: that which brings carbonate from the Earth's mantle. With access to a unique collection of altered lengai lavas, we will construct [1] a model of subsolidus alteration in Lengai and other carbonatites, linking the various carbonatite types, and [2] a detailed analysis of the alteration, including identifying key minerals to recognise weathered natrocarbonatite in volcanic successions, sediments and soils.

We will undertake a pilot study of east African soils and sediments from archaeological sites to search for evidence of carbonatite. We will ascertain whether Lengai is unique, discuss the role of na in carbonate magmas, and collaborate with soil scientists and archaeologists to apply the results to land management and reconstruction of palaeoconditions. Based at The Natural History Museum London, a world centre for carbonatite studies, and in collaboration with experts in Germany, Hungary and UK, we will undertake a meticulous and comprehensive approach involving advanced studies in mineralogy, petrology, geochemistry (including isotopes), soil science, and thermodynamic modelling.

Additionally, the project will provide interdisciplinary training in petrology, soil science, modern analytical techniques and the public presentation of science to enable the candidate to become a research leader in Russia, with a return phase at St. Petersburg University. The project contributes to 3 aims of structuring the ERA: human mobility, communications between research and citizens and research infrastructure. It builds a Russian - trans-European research community and links to the Thematic Priority 1.1.6.3 Global Changes and Ecosystems.

Zaproszenie do składania wniosków

FP6-2002-MOBILITY-7
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SAINT-PETERSBURG STATE UNIVERSITY
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Rosja

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