Earth Science applications of synchrotron light

Synchrotrons are increasingly useful in Earth Science applications. The high energy x-rays enable the study of the physics and chemistry taking place in the extreme conditions that occured during the formation of the solar system and in the interior of planets. Microfocus spectroscopy on samples such as meteorites and comet dust provide information on the environment in which they formed. Powder diffraction studies enable the mineralogical community to investigate the behaviour of naturally occurring materials and the subtle responses of known structures to changes in temperature, applied stress and chemical variations.

To discuss possible earth science experiments at Diamond, please contact the relevant beamline scientist or Andy Dent.

Potential industrial users should contact Elizabeth Shotton.

Earth Science Highlights

• How do earthquake waves spread?
  02 Jul 2009
  The impact earthquakes have on the planet’s surface is well documented. However, much less is known about what happens deep in the planet’s interior. An international group of researchers have Read more...
• Extreme Conditions: The early origins of our planet
  05 Nov 2008
  What are the origins of our planet, and the solar system that surrounds it? Without a direct geological record of the early history of the Earth, understanding how Earth and Moon were formed requires investigations Read more...
• Examining the Santa Catharina meteorite
  18 Sep 2007
  Dr Paul Schofield is a researcher in mineral sciences in the Department of Mineralogy at the Natural History Museum (NHM). Paul used I18 to study a range of earth and life science specimens from Read more...