potential research projects offered for level 4 (honours ...€¦ · geology, geophysics, petroleum...

School of Earth and Environment

Potential research projects offered for Level 4 (Honours) and

Level 5 (Masters) students commencing in 2014

Geology, Geophysics, Petroleum Geoscience, CO2 Sequestration,

Engineering, Physics, Computer Science

The Projects outlined in this Handbook are NOT necessarily all of those available. Please feel free to talk to supervisors about designing projects around your interests

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Geology, Geophysics, Petroleum Geoscience, CO2 Sequestration, Engineering, Physics, Computer Science Geophysics is the study of the earth and its physical processes Using the quantitative methods of physics, math and computer science. Studies include the solid earth, oceans, atmosphere, ionosphere and space. Geophysical data sets such as seismic waves, em waves including radar, gravity, magnetics etc. are used to image the earth (inside and out). Solid earth applications range from plate tectonics, volcanics and earthquake seismology, to exploration and monitoring of energy resources such as hydrocarbons and geothermal, to mineral exploration, to groundwater, CO2 storage and environmental processes. Project: 3D/4D Geophysical imaging of hydrocarbon and CO2 reservoirs For majors including:

Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science

Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected] 6488 7331, Jeff Shragge, Nader Issa

Description: Geophysical data sets, especially seismic waves, can be used to image (3D), and monitor in time-lapse mode (4D), subsurface reservoirs for oil and gas resources, or injection and storage of industrial CO2, using techniques such as seismic, gravity and EM (electromagnetics). These projects require working with rock and fluid physics, earth model building software, computational geophysics data simulation, imaging and inversion, and quantitative data analysis. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.

Project: Analysis of seismic azimuthal anisotropy and tectonic stress For majors including:


Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331, Jeff Shragge, Nader Issa

Description: There is evidence from various types of geophysical data of strong azimuthal anisotropy (subsurface physical properties at a point vary as a function of the compass direction in which they are measured) possibly indicating anomalous horizontal tectonic stress gradients in WA. These data sets can be analysed to determine information about the stress regime in these rocks, their physical properties, and perhaps make predictions about the nature of fluid flow, fault sealing, rock fractures, and earthquake risk. This project may require working with various geophysical data sets (active/passive seismic, well logs, borehole breakouts, ultrasonic core measurements…) and geophysical modelling/analysis software. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.

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Project: 3D/4D environmental geophysics For majors including:


Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331, Jeff Shragge, Nader Issa

Description: Geophysical data sets can be used to image (3D) and monitor (4D) near surface soil and rocks using techniques such as seismic, gravity, GPR (ground penetrating radar) and EM (electromagnetics), with application to groundwater, contaminant flow, and baseline studies for CO2 sequestration projects. These projects may involve geophysical field data surveying, working with rock and fluid physics, earth model building software, computational geophysics data simulation, and quantitative data analysis. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.

Project: Computational simulation of geologic sedimentation processes For majors including:


Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331, Jeffrey Shragge, Julien Bourget

Description: Reservoir rocks that contain important fluids (hydrocarbons, water, CO2, geothermal) are created by complex geologic depositional systems. This project involves the development of innovative models and running supercomputing algorithms that will simulate the sedimentation processes of marine coastal environments important for understanding WA reservoir rocks. Computer programming experience and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.

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Project: High Resolution seismic imaging of seafloor properties for slope stability and geo-hazard assessment

For majors including:


Supervisor: David Lumley, [email protected], 6488 7331, Jeff Shragge, Julien Bourget

Description: Engineering studies of the seafloor are important to understand the physical properties, slope stability and geo-hazards associated with offshore pipeline and facilities construction. Currently this is done using a collection of sparse geotechnical data samples and sonar scans, and geologic interpretation. This project involves developing new seismic techniques to obtain high-resolution images and material property estimates for the seafloor and shallow mud layers to complement the geo-engineering analysis. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.

Project Modelling Seismic Wavefields for Imaging Earth Structure For majors including


Supervisor: Jeffrey Shragge [email protected], 6488 3474 and David Lumley

Description: The increasing interest in subsurface gas reservoirs and CO2 geologic storage has led to a rapid increase in 3D and time-lapse (4D) computational seismic modelling of fluid/gas production and injection processes. A central component is modelling 3D elastic-waves propagation through to generate high-resolution maps of the changing subsurface elastic / fluid properties. The computationally demanding 3D elastic-wave modelling is repeated thousands of times during each investigation, and is an ideal candidate for parallelisation using GPU processors. The general project goals are to incorporate GPU-based coding in an existing modelling code kernel to demonstrate the speed-up potential afforded by GPU parallelism, and to test the parallelised code on a geologically feasible model using the GPU hardware on IVEC@UWA’s Fornax cluster. A vacation scholarship is possible, and the project can lead to MSc or PhD studies.

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Project Time-lapse Geophysical Monitoring of Fresh-Saltwater Interfaces For Majors including


Supervisor: Jeffrey Shragge [email protected], 6488 3474, David Lumley and Matthias Leopold

Description: Salinisation of superficial freshwater water resources is a problem of increasing importance throughout Western Australia. One approach to characterising this problem is to examine temporal variations of a fresh-saltwater interface through repeat geophysical monitoring surveying (i.e. ground penetrating radar or GPR, and electrical resistivity). These techniques are sensitive to changes in subsurface salinity and can provide a measure diurnal-to-monthly fluctuation. The goal of the study is to use the resulting geophysical images to calibrate hydrogeological models, with particular emphasis on horizontal and vertical hydraulic conductivity.

Project 3D Geophysical Mapping and Reconstruction of the Meckering

Fault For Majors including


Supervisor: Jeffrey Shragge [email protected], 6488 3474, Matthias Leopold and David Lumley

Description: The Meckering Earthquake of 14 October 1968 was the most significant seismicity in WA’s history in terms of damage done and cultural upheaval. The magnitude (ML) of the earthquake was 6.9 on the Richter scale with ~2m of heave along an arcuate rupture plane nearly 40km in length. Roughly 1.5km of the surficial fault scarp is currently visible and has been preserved from agricultural activities. The main project goal is to use near-surface geophysics (resistivity, ground penetrating radar, etc) to map out, image and reconstruct the fault scarp in three dimensions to provide constraints on neotectonics of the Southwest Seismic Zone of WA.

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Project: Field trails of an advanced fibre optics seismic wavefield sensor For majors including:

Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics

Supervisor: Nader Issa, [email protected], 6488 6872, David Lumley Description: A new technology, called Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), has in

recent years emerged as a potential and promising seismic sensor for a number of geophysical applications. DAS uses modern photonics technologies and lasers to interrogate long lengths of buried optical-fibre, measuring seismic waves at each meter along that fibre. This project involves some field trials of our newly built instrument and data analysis to explore the capabilities and future applications of this new technology. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.

Project: Imaging the earth with ambient noise fields For majors including:

Geophysics, Physics, Engineering, Mathematics

Supervisor: Nader Issa, [email protected], 6488 6872, David Lumley Description: Usually we design data acquisition systems to enhance signal and

reduce noise.... but sometimes the noise in real data is very useful and we wish there was more! A passive seismic measurement is done without intentionally using a man-made source of seismic energy. It records a variety of noise sources, including the ambient seismic noise of such things as: nearby traffic, waves at the beach or even stormy weather. This project involves finding ambient seismic noise in real data and using it (alone) to create images of the subsurface. Such innovative techniques are a promising new way to image the earth, including to monitor subsurface reservoirs or the injection and storage of CO2. Computer experience and some maths are required. Projects have the potential to follow on to vacation work internships, and MSc or PhD studies.

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Project 4D gravity monitoring of CO2 in the presence of geological heterogeneity


Geophysics, Geoscience, Petroleum Geoscience, Physics, Computer Science

Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147, Jeff Shragge Description: Gravity data can be used to monitor reservoirs for the sequestration of

industrial CO2. Sensitivity to multi-year change is marginal however, and relies on a strong understanding of basin geometry and properties. Geological heterogeneity within the reservoir, especially porosity variations, impact on the ability to detect and monitor CO2 plumes. Geological heterogeneity is often ill-understood, and its influence on monitoring potential is usually not known. This project seeks to better understand this factor for an example in the South Perth Basin. This project suits those with an interest in petroleum or environmental applications of geophysics. Some computing experience and reasonable maths ability are required. The scope of the project lends itself to either BSc or MSc level research.

Project: Australo-Antarctic Geology and the East Antarctic Ice Sheet For majors including:

Any geoscience related degree

Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147 Description: The vulnerability of the East Antarctic Ice Sheet (EAIS) to climate

change is a topic of much recent interest, with several studies showing that it may be more vulnerable to change than is commonly supposed. The EAIS is the biggest uncertainty in projections of future sea-level rise. Geology provides crucial controls on the conditions of the ice sheet bed (e.g. crystalline rock versus sedimentary rock) and its macro-scale structure, dictated by major tectonic elements. Antarctica’s hot new geophysical datasets from the US-UK-AUS ICECAP program (http://www.ig.utexas.edu/people/staff/blank/projects/icecap/) have revealed for the first time the geology of Wilkes Land – the conjugate margin to the western 2/3rds of Australia. Several projects are available that will utilise these brand new data to reconstruct and understand subglacial geology, including key controls on EAIS flow organisation. These projects are best suited towards students with an academic focus as the results are highly publishable and likely to be of high impact if well executed. Some familiarity with geophysical data interpretation, including gravity, magnetic and radar data, and a willingness to understand cross-disciplinary concepts are essential. Projects are best suited to 2 year MSc level, but smaller projects can be accommodated.

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Project: A methodology of very large-scale gravity inversion? For majors including:

Any geoscience related degree, physics, computer science

Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected], 6488 7147 Description: The density of the Earth's crust and mantle layers has a profound

impact on the planet's tectonic cycles with many follow on implications, e.g. for resource exploration and geological hazards. Gravity modelling has, to data struggled to cope with very large-scale modelling due to model size and resolution limitations, capturing model complexity, and working in spherical co-ordinate systems. Several projects are available to apply new technologies to regional to continent-scale gravity inversion problems. Work will be completed making full use of iVEC supercomputer infrastructure and will involve testing new codes against existing approaches, assessing performance and helping to further develop the approach. This project suits those with an interest in geophysics. Software is designed to be used by non-specialists, however, some computing experience and reasonable maths ability are required. The scope of the projects lends themselves to MSc level research.

Project: Beyond the Bump Hunt? AEM data as a regional interpretation

tool For majors including:

Any geoscience related degree

Supervisor: Alan Aitken, [email protected]; 6488 7147, Mike Dentith; Yusen Ley

Description: Traditionally, airborne electromagnetic (AEM) data are used to a) map the thickness of regolith and variations within that layer and b) detect subsurface conductive bodies that may be ore-bodies. A new generation of regional AEM datasets is becoming increasingly available and, coupled with increased visualisation and modelling capabilities, these datasets can provide the opportunity to map regional geology in 3D beneath cover. When integrated with other datasets such as geology, magnetic and gravity data and seismic data, a more complete model of subsurface geology can be achieved. Using the recently collected data from the Capricorn Orogen, this project will involve the 3D interpretation of AEM data in concert with other geophysical data. The project is well suited to mathematically literate geology students, or geologically savvy geophysics students, and is most applicable to those who seek a career in the mineral exploration industry. BSc or MSc level projects can be accommodated.

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Project: Geological mapping of Venus – Atalanta Planitia Quadrangle For majors including:

Geology

Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198 Description: Our record of the early evolution of Earth is limited by erosion, burial,

tectonic dismemberment and periods of impact cratering. The Venusian surface preserves a rare and pristine record of terrestrial planet evolution. We aim to map in detail parts of the Atalanta Planitia Quadrangle (V4) of the northern hemisphere. Our proposed area contains vast areas of Venusian “tesserae” that is thought to represent the oldest surviving Venusian landscapes, and which provides a rich and detailed history of the evolution of the Venusian planetary surface. This project will involve interpreting SAR data and using first-order geological relationships to understand the kinematic evolution of the ancient tessera terrains in this block. Students must have a good understanding of structural geology and tectonics to 3rd year level. The scope of the project is compatible with extension to Masters level.

Project: Instanteous melts on Venus – Earth analogues For majors including:

Geology

Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198, Description: The Venusian surface, especially in the tesserae regions (the oldest

Venusian crust), is covered with areas of instantaneous melt which flood the local geology. These flood areas are local, are not associated with volcanic edifices, and seem to be melting in place. Whilst they may be of roughly the same age, there is no evidence that they all formed at the same time as the result of a single event. Rather, they appear to be spontaneous localized melts, similar to those which occur in high-grade metamorphic rocks on Earth. Granulite facies terrains include numerous areas of various sizes comprising pegmatite from instantaneous, localized melt during deformation. This project seeks to map in detail the number and extent of pegmatite melts in a small area of a granulite terrain, with a view to comparing melt processes from deformation at deep crustal levels on Earth with processes of instantaneous melt formation on Venus. Fieldwork will be conducted in the Bremer Bay area in February 2013.

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Project: Neotectonics and strike-slip reactivation in offshore petroleum basins of northern WA


Geology

Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198 Julien Bourget Description: The northwest of WA hosts Australia’s largest recorded earthquakes

(ML 7.3, Meeberrie, 1941). Identification of modern surface offsets (fault scarps) and drainage capture, together with recently acquired earthquake focal mechanism data for 28 recent events, suggests that modern geomorphology may yield evidence as to recent earthquake activity throughout north-western WA. This project seeks to map modern structural orientations and fault reactivation in offshore areas in the Carnarvon and Browse Basins with a view to understanding the pre-reactivation geometries and timing, and relating them to the modern tectonic setting. Two projects are available, and the scope is compatible for continuation to Masters level.

Project: Seafloor bathymetry in the western Timor Sea as evidence of

modern tectonic processes For majors including:

Geology

Supervisor: Myra Keep, [email protected], 6488 7198, Julien Bourget Description: High resolution Seabeam seafloor bathymetric data acquired by an

international petroleum company yields details of seafloor topography related to modern collisional deformation. Detailed mapping of an area in the western Timor Sea will yield evidence as to surface processes, sedimentation rates, fluid flux and structural controls on seafloor deformation. Based on Seabeam image interpretations, likely with some high-resolution seismic data across key transects, these interpretations can be compiled with deformation known from seismic data and onshore data from exposures on Timor Island, to further decipher the processes and timing of the Australia/Eurasia collision in the Timor Sea area. Up to 2 projects are available, and are both compatible with extension to Masters level.

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Project: External controls on the architecture and evolution of Paleocene - Eocene carbonate platforms, NW Bonaparte and Browse basins: a seismic stratigraphic approach


Geology

Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679 Description: This research project aims to unravel the distribution, architecture, an

growth history of isolated carbonate platforms that developed at the boundary between the Browse and Bonaparte basins during the Paleocene and Eocene. Carbonate sedimentation repeatedly alternated with periods of platform exposure and siliciclastic shelf-margin sedimentation, and the external controls at the origin of these sequences will be investigated. The project will be based on 2D and 3D seismic data complemented by well wireline data. Seismic stratigraphy and 3D attribute analysis will be conducted and will allow identifying stratal geometries, stratigraphic surfaces, and high-resolution imaging of depositional geometries. Structural mapping and analysis will be conducted in order to evaluate the potential impact of basement faults on carbonate platforms emplacement/geometries. This Level 4 project can be complemented by additional datasets and extended as a Level 5 research project.

Project: 3D seismic stratigraphy – Plio-Quaternary analogues for carbonate

reservoirs For majors including:

Geology

Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679 Description: This research project will use a newly acquired (2012) 3D seismic

survey to investigate the seismic stratigraphic evolution of a Plio-Quaternary analogue for carbonate reservoirs forming in intra-shelf basinal settings (i.e., numerous oil and gas fields from the Middle East of Mesozoic age). You will learn state-of-the-art interpretation techniques of 3D seismic data (volume interpretation, horizon cube generation, attribute analysis) to build a concept model of stratigraphic evolution of the basin during the last 4 million years. The project will also focus on the identification and mapping of potential reservoir geobodies (carbonate build-ups, platforms, and tidal channels) to populate a reservoir database. The identification of changes in carbonate growth patterns will also provide new insights on the sea-level and climate changes that occurred in northern Australia in the Pliocene and Quaternary. This valuable information on the sensitivity of reef systems to environmental modifications will help understanding the future evolution of present-day barrier reefs in Australia and worldwide.

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Project: Shallow-marine seismic stratigraphy and reservoir architecture in

the offshore Taranaki Basin (New-Zealand) For majors including:

Geology

Supervisor: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 2679 Description: The Taranaki Basin is a hydrocarbon-bearing sedimentary basin

containing Cretaceous to Pliocene reservoir intervals in continental, shallow-marine and deep-marine depositional settings. This project will focus on an Eocene shallow-marine deposit located off the northern Taranaik coast. Three-dimensional seismic data and well data will be used to create a high-resolution sequence stratigraphic framework of the field area. Attribute analysis techniques will help characterizing depositional architecture, identify potential reservoir target(s) and trap(s).

Project: Marine climate change off western Australia’s and the Indian

Ocean from geochemical proxies in massive corals For majors including:

Geology

Supervisor: Jens Zinke, [email protected], 6369 4029 Description: To investigate changes in sea surface temperature and/or sediment

erosion from coral reefs at Rowley Shoals, Ningaloo, Pilbara coast and Abrolhos. Similar material is also available from western Indian Ocean coral reef sites (Tanzania, Kenya). The project involves geochemical analysis of coral cores on yearly and monthly resolution in the new Advanced Geochemical Facility of UWA. Samples are drilled with an automated milling device and subsequently prepared for chemical analysis. Study involved training in coral sampling, chemical preparation and analysis with ICP-MS and UWA Gas Bench facility. Involves climate data analysis and basic statistics. Knowledge on Matlab or R software beneficial. Involves collaboration with the Australian Institute of Marine Science. There is a possibility to join scuba-diving fieldwork activities at reefs off WA given qualifications and opportunity.

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Project: Analysis of geothermal processes in the North Perth Basin For majors including:

Geology

Supervisor: Klaus Regenauer-Lieb, [email protected], 6488 7321,

Description: Geothermal energy has the potential to be an important part of our future renewable energies mix. To locate suitable areas for geothermal applications, it is essential to get a better understanding of the relevant heat transport mechanism in the subsurface. In this project, you will test different hypotheses about heat transport in a potential geothermal reservoir area of the North Perth Basin. You will apply a variety of state-of-the-art modelling and simulation methods to obtain a detailed understanding of the subsurface temperature field in a realistic three-dimensional environment. Comparing simulated temperatures with published measurements, you will be able to evaluate the importance of different heat transport mechanisms in the area and to identify potential targets for geothermal applications. If you are curious about physical processes in geologic settings, are interested in the application of cutting edge computational modelling and simulation techniques and bring along some mathematical and physical knowledge with a solid geological understanding, this is a great project for you in an exciting research quest; the search for the energy of tomorrow.

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Project: 360° review of the application of geophysics for target generation at Atlas Iron’s Pardoo project


Any geoscience related degree involving some geophysics

Supervisor: Mike Dentith, [email protected], Phil Hawke [email protected],

Description: Geophysics is an important tool in mineral exploration providing support for the interpretation of basement geology and structures, particularly in areas of poor exposure, and in the identification of direct targets based on an assumed geological and geophysical response model for the target commodity. Atlas Iron’s Pardoo Project covers a large part of the Archaean Ord Greenstone Belt in the northern Pilbara Cration, approximately 75 km to the east of Port Hedland. Atlas has defined and mined a number of small DSO resources in the Project area. A review of the available geophysical data (gravity and magnetics) over the project area completed in late 2012 identified a number targets for further follow-up and review. Following ground reconnaissance of the exploration targets, drill testing was completed on those deemed most prospective. The opportunity now exists to complete a 360° review the processes used in completing and testing this geophysical target generation study with the objective to identify opportunities to increase the chance of exploration success in future work. Specific questions may include:

• How are the geophysical anomalies linked with the follow-up geological observations and have the targets been adequately explained?

• Has recent geological studies of iron ore genesis (by the CET and elsewhere) identified a better geological / geophysical model for target generation?

• Are there any image enhancement techniques available to better isolate anomalous targets which may represent DSO iron mineralisation?

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Project: Unravelling tectonic and eustatic controls on shelf-margin and

slope sedimentation in the northern Bonaparte Basin For majors including:

Geology, Petroleum Geoscience, Earth Science

Supervisors: Julien Bourget, [email protected], 6488 3654, Myra Keep Description: The Bonaparte Basin (NW Shelf of Australia, Timor Sea) constitutes a

long-lived sedimentary basin supporting important oil and gas exploration and production. The basin forms a very wide continental shelf where sedimentation consisted of silliciclastic supply mixed with outer shelf carbonates. The aim of this project is to integrate very-high resolution two-dimensional and three-dimensional seimic datasets, wireline and shallow cores, in order to investigate the depositional history and architetcure of Pleistocene shelf-margin deltaic sediments on the northern edge of the basin (Sunrise Field). The main aims are (1) to determine the relative importance of local tectonics and global sea-level fluctuations on shelf-margin depocentres and geometries; (2) to establish a correlation between shelf-margin and basin sedimentation during this time span and evaluate the nature of turbidite system architecture and its recent evolution. This project will be part of a wider research proposal involving academic and industry partners, and could be continued in the form a longer (Msc) project. Students should have completed EART3344 Basin Analysis.

Project: Depositional history and characterisation of petroleum reservoirs,

North West Shelf (may be company sponsored) For majors including:

Geology, Petroleum Geoscience, Mineral Geoscience, Geochemistry, Geology & Resource Economics

Supervisor: Annette George, [email protected], 6488 1923 Description: A wide variety of petroleum reservoirs are encountered in the offshore

basins of the North West Shelf and various onshore basins in WA. Petroleum-focused projects can be undertaken in shallow or deep marine depositional systems to reconstruct depositional and tectonic history of specific basins or through specific stratigraphic units (notably reservoirs). These projects typically involve integration of core work (sedimentology, facies analysis ± petrography ± biostratigraphy) with seismic and/or wire line log data in a sequence-stratigraphic framework. There are specific projects focusing on seismic sequence-stratigraphic interpretation of basin-margin history and characterisation of reservoir intervals, and projects that may include palynological biostratigraphy.

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Project: Characterisation of siliciclastic- or carbonate-dominated reservoirs (associated with conventional and unconventional resources in onshore WA Basins (e.g. Canning Basin, Perth Basin (may be company sponsored)


Geology, Petroleum Geoscience, Mineral Geoscience, Geochemistry, Geology & Resource Economics

Supervisor: Annette George, [email protected], 6488 1923 Description: Understanding reservoir quality is a fundamental aspect of petroleum

system analysis. The onshore basins of WA have been the sites of earliest petroleum exploration in WA, and despite the dominance of the NWS as the major petroleum producer, the onshore basins have had some exciting oil discoveries in the last few years (e.g. Cliff Head, Perth Basin, and Ungani in the Canning Basin). Projects will focus on conventional and unconventional reservoir development using core to petrographic-scale description and interpretation to establish depositional setting/environments and major controls on reservoir quality (i.e. principally distribution of porosity and permeability). Some of these projects could include application of portable XRF to core to obtain geochemical data for characterising facies and diagenetic effects. Some projects could involve application of higher level microscopic techniques (scanning electron, cathode luminescence).

Project: ASD, XRF and microthermometry analyses of Au-Ag-Mn veins

from the epithermal low-sulfidation Farallon Negro deposit, Catamarca province, Argentina: constraints on the physcio-chemical conditions and ore forming processes


Economic Geology

Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected], Prof. Ana Fogliata (UT-Argentina)

Description: This project will use a variety of geochemical methods to characterize the hydrothermal fluids responsible for the transport and precipitation of Au, Ag and Mn. Ore forming processes such as fluid boiling and/or mixing will also be constrained. The new information on the fluid chemistry will then be used to develop a hydrothermal fluid model for this significant epithermal low sulfidation deposit. This project will be part of a larger research effort of CET researchers to understand the fundamental hydrothermal fluid characteristics of epithermal low sulfidation deposits in Argentina.

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Project: Sulfur isotopes of sulfides at the Telfer gold-copper deposit, Patterson province, Western Australia


Economic Geology

Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected], Christian Schindler (PhD cand – UWA)

Description: Sulfur isotopes are used to monitor the source of sulphides and the redox state of sulfur bearing hydrothermal fluids. This project will use in situ sulphur isotopes on sulphides and sulphates from the Telfer gold deposit and surrounding granites, including a W skarn, to constrain the sulphur isotope signature of the Telfer gold-copper system. This project will be part of a larger research effort of CET researchers at the Telfer deposit and surrounding area.

Project: Petrography and microthermometry of quartz veins in the

itabirite-hosted Liberdade Fe deposit, Iron Quadrangle, Brazil For majors including:

Economic Geology

Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected], Rosalina Figueiredo e Silva (Professor UFMG-Brazil)

Description: This project will use transmitted, reflected light microscopy and microthermometry to characterize the physico-chemical conditions of hydrothermal fluids within pegmatite-related quartz veins located in the itabirite-hosted Liberdade Fe deposit. These fluids will be compared to the hydrothermal fluids in spatially and temporally related granites and associated alexandrite gemstone pegmatite. The new fluid chemistry data on both veins in iron ore, granite, and alexandrite pegmatite will then be used to develop a hydrothermal fluid model for the Liberdade Fe deposit. This project will be part of a larger research effort of CET researchers to understand the fundamental hydrothermal fluid characteristics of Fe deposits in the Iron Quadrangle, Minas Gerais, Brazil

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Project: Hydrothermal alteration mineralogy and zoning at the Frogs Leg gold deposit, Yilgarn craton, Western Australia


Economic Geology

Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected], Sian Nichols (La Mancha chief geologist)

Description: Hydrothermal alteration mineralogy and zonation of the orogenic mesozonal Frogs Leg deposit near Kalgoorlie will be constrained by detailed petrography, mineral chemistry and whole rock, trace element and REE geochemistry. This new data will be used to establish the hydrothermal footprint and P-T-X conditions of gold mineralization at this deposit; in addition mineralogical and geochemical vectors towards gold mineralization be will be established.

Project: Structural control, hydrothermal alteration and iron ore

mineralogy of the Koodaideri Fe deposit, Hamersley province, Western Australia


Economic Geology

Supervisor: Steffen Hagemann, 6488 1517, [email protected], Warren Thorne (Rio Tinto project geologist)

Description: This project will be the first attempt to document the structural control of, hydrothermal alteration mineralogy and iron ore species at the Koodaideri Fe deposit in the Hamersley province, Western Australia. Detailed diamond core logging (both petrographically and structurally) and sampling of hydrothermally altered rocks and ore types in the field will be undertaken under the supervision of RT geologists. At the laboratory transmitted and reflected light microscopy as well as microprobe analyses of key iron ore species will be used to constrain the different iron ore species but also to establish the iron ore paragenesis in the context of the structural and hydrothermal alteration framework.

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Project: Development of digital techniques for open pit mapping For majors including:

Geology, Earth Science, Engineering, Minerals Geoscience

Supervisor: Steven Micklethwaite, [email protected] , 6488 2771 Paul Bourke (Ivec@UWA), Peter Kovesi (Image Analysis, CET)

Geological mapping of active and legacy open pit mines is an important step in industry workflow but typically hampered by safety hazards, time constraints, or the operation of heavy machinery. For these reasons it is difficulty for geological teams to properly tract, interpret and archive geological data, as mines are being developed. Methods: This project will utilise new techniques in photogrammetry to photograph and reconstruct in 3-D, active or legacy open pits, managed by Focus Mineral Ltd (Coolgardie). The student will experiment with different conditions to obtain the vest form of reconstruction. Then orthorectified images will be extracted and analysed in GIS software in order to produce a digital map of the major structures, lithologies, alteration halos and regolith boundaries exposed in pit walls. The student will then compare and contrast the digital data with maps they produce using established manual techniques. Processing of the data with the latest software will take place at both iVEC and the Centre for Exploration Targeting, located at the University of Western Australia. Requirements: This project requires a high quality student with expertise in geological mapping, who is also comfortable with new technology. Flights, accommodation, field costs and PPE will be supplied by Focus Minerals Ltd.

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Project: High-resolution 3-D analysis of veins using photogrammetry For majors including:

Geology, Petroleum Geoscience, Earth Science, Engineering, Minerals Geoscience

Supervisor: Steven Micklethwaite, [email protected] , 6488 2771, Paul Paul Bourke (Ivec@UWA), Peter Kovesi (Image Analysis, CET)

Description: Veins represent one of the most important records of fracturing and fluid flow within the earth's crust. Understanding how they nucleate and develop over time is a key problem, important to a wide range of industries including minerals exploration, petroleum and CO2 storage. A unique hand specimen of veins has been collected from Victoria, which contains textures that appear to contradict existing models of sigmoidal vein formation. Methods: The student will be trained in the use of new techniques in photogrammetry to reconstruct the sample in 3-D at high-resolutions, using digital photographs. The student will experiment with different conditions to obtain the best form of reconstruction. Then orthorectified images will be extracted and analysed in GIS software, in order to map the direction of growth fibres and track how the veins grew over time. Processing of the data with the latest software will take place at both iVEC and the Centre for Exploration Targeting, located at the University of Western Australia. Requirements: This project requires a high quality student who is comfortable with new technology. No field work will be required for the project. A successful outcome has the potential to result in a publication.

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Project: Early Archean anorthosites near Mount Narryer: Australia’s oldest rocks?


Geology, Geochemistry

Supervisor: Tony Kemp, [email protected], 6488 7846 Description: Anorthosites are amongst the oldest components of the lunar crust, and

also occur in the most ancient rock packages on Earth. This project focuses upon the anorthositic and related mafic and ultramafic meta-igneous rocks of the Narryer Terrane in the northern part of the Yilgarn Craton. Dated at 3750 Ma, there are the oldest rocks yet discovered in Australia, but remarkably little is known about their distribution, petrology or composition – or the exciting possibility that even more ancient rocks occur in the area. This project would involve field examination, petrography and mineral chemistry of the Narryer anorthosites using sophisticated microbeam techniques such as electron microscopy and laser ablation inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry. A major aim would be to retrieve primary compositional information about the early Archean terrestrial mantle from relict igneous minerals in these rocks. This project is part of a broader research initiative into the ancient cratonic nucleus of Australia, in collaboration with the Geological Survey of Western Australia, Curtin University and the Australian National University. If undertaken as a two-year project, the second year would involve geochronology and radiogenic isotope geochemistry.

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Project: Granulite xenoliths as windows into the lowermost crust and continent-forming processes



Supervisor: Tony Kemp, [email protected], 6488 7846 in collaboration with Prof Richard Arculus (ANU)

Description: The granulitic lower crust has a key role in the strengthening and stabilization of continents, however the exact nature of this deep crustal reservoir remains enigmatic due to the difficulty of obtaining direct samples. This project is to study an extremely rare occurrence of pristine (unretrogressed) granulite xenoliths that have been carried to the surface by alkali basalts in eastern Australia. The samples are mid-Paleozoic in age and include both mafic metaigneous and metasedimentary compositions. They potentially represent the high temperature residues/cumulates of partial melting during the formation of the vast subduction-related batholiths of eastern Australia, thus can provide a wealth of information about continent generation processes from the ‘bottom-up’. Characterising the petrography, mineral chemistry and bulk geochemistry of these granulites is the subject of this Honours project. Emphasis would be on accessory minerals (zircon, monazite, allanite) and garnet-hosted melt inclusions. Analytical work would involve use of an electron microprobe, ion microprobe and laser ablation microsampling system. A companion project focuses on the petrology of granulites and eclogite from the roots of an obducted island arc sequence on Hokkaido, northern Japan, one of only three occurrences of its type in the world. Suitable for either a one or two year project.

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Project: Crystal micro-forensics– a new tool for tracking the budget and transport of rare metals through the crust



Supervisor: Tony Kemp, [email protected], 6488 7846, Steffen Hagemann and John Reeve

Description: The high field strength elements (e.g., Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, W) have proven remarkably useful for modelling crust-mantle differentiation, and are becoming increasingly valuable as strategic commodities - the ‘technology metals’, essential for the production of sophisticated electronic devices. The mechanisms by which these important metals are transferred through the crust and concentrated into ore deposits are, however, unclear. This project focuses upon the main mineral hosts of rare metals, namely cassiterite, tantalite, columbite and associated Sn-W-Ta-Nb-rich phases, in granitic pegmatites from across Western Australia. The microstructures and major and trace element inventory of these minerals will be investigated at the micron-scale by microbeam imaging and analysis, utilizing the state-of-the-art geochemical laboratories at UWA. The ultimate aim is to explore the viability of these minerals as geochronometers, geothermometers and tracers of fluid and metal sources. This will shed new light on the timing and physico-chemical controls on ore deposit formation, as well as better constrain the budget of rare metals in the crust during thermal and fluid flow events. This project would be supported by several exploration companies, and is compatible with either a one or two year duration.

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Project: Development of an international Miocene apatite (U-Th)/He standard



Supervisor: Geoff Batt, [email protected], 6488 2686, Brent McInnes (Curtin) Noreen Evans (CSIRO)

Description: The CSIRO (U-Th)/He facility at the John De Laeter Centre for Mass Spectrometry has identified an apatite-rich alkaline basalt from the Tuvatu Cu-Au prospect in Fiji that underwent rapid cooling at very shallow levels (1-2 km depth) during its Miocene emplacement. These characteristics may allow this body to provide one or more new international age standard(s), filling an important niche in geochronology and thermochronology research. This student research project will focus principally on the geochemical characterisation and isotopic dating of the basalt and its mineral phases, with the objective of determining the suitability of apatite (and other accessory phases) to act as such an age standard. No fieldwork would be required for the project, as samples have already been collected. However, a successful outcome may lead to follow-up opportunities to return to Fiji for further field investigations and sampling. The project will involve petrographic and microprobe analysis to characterize the sample material, followed by the separation and purification of select accessory phases for high precision geochemical and isotopic analysis, including thermochronometry. Full training would be provided in the instrumentation and analytical techniques to be applied. It is expected that a co-authored research paper will result from this project after completion of studies.

Project: Isotopic Geochronology and Tectonics For majors including:


Supervisor: Geoff Batt, [email protected], 6488 2686 Description: Understanding of chemical and isotopic behaviour within mineral

structures provides a capability to identify geological and thermal histories arising from a wide range of processes, ranging from magmatic crystallization to low-temperature weathering. The resolution of 4D Earth history and dynamic processes through such geo/thermochronometric records has important applications in many areas of geosciences, including provenance studies, structural geology, landscape evolution, petroleum and ore system genesis, and paleoclimate-tectonic linkages. A range of projects are possible in both fundamental and applied aspects of this field, jointly supervised by SEE staff and researchers from CSIRO and other areas of the John de Laeter Research Centre of Mass Spectrometry, as appropriate. Students undertaking economically focused projects are encouraged to apply for a UWA Geoscience Foundation scholarship.

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Project: Thermochronology as a Structural Marker in the Mount George Structural Zone



Supervisor: Geoff Batt, [email protected], 6488 2686, Nicholas Thebaud, Noreen Evans (CSIRO)

Description: The Mount George structural zone represents an Achaean terrane boundary in the Eastern Goldfields Province of the Yilgarn Terrane. The zone hosts a range of important mineral deposits, but its evolution is incompletely understood, with multiple phases of reactivation and an uncertain sense of post-accretion movement. This student research project will use (U-Th)/He thermochronometry of zircon to identify relative differences in the timing and magnitude of exhumation experienced within and around the structural zone. This constraint will be applied to characterize the latest phase of regional deformation, and assess correlation of deformation and erosion to the distribution of economic mineral deposits. Although crucial to both discovery and economic extraction, relative exhumation of hypogene mineral systems has received little to no attention in traditional exploration strategies in the Yilgarn. This investigation will contribute to new understanding of the latter evolution of the Mount George structural zone, and may offer significant insight into refining metallogenic models used to identify new prospective areas. No fieldwork would be required, as samples have already been collected. The project will involve petrographic and microprobe analyses to characterize samples. Zircon and other accessory phases will be selected and prepared for high precision geochemical and isotopic analysis, including thermochronometry. Full training would be provided in the instrumentation and analytical techniques to be applied

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Project: Improved thermal event discrimination in zircon (U-Th)/He thermochronology




Description: Age distributions in mixed-source samples (sediments, xenolithic/crystic material etc) are a potentially important source of information on thermal processes, sediment provenance, tectonic uplift and crustal exhumation, and other fundamental aspects of geological history. It has recently been recognized, however, that accumulated radiation damage alters the rate of isotopic diffusion through crystal lattices, complicating the identification of significant signals in detrital datasets. This project will consist of characterizing the relationship between (U-Th)/He ages and metamictization in zircon crystals from mixed source samples. Understanding this systematic behaviour has implications for studies ongoing within the CSIRO (U-Th)/The facility at the John de Laeter Centre for Mass Spectrometry, in which helium age distributions are being developed as a tool for diamond, gold, and petroleum exploration. No fieldwork would be required, as suitable samples have already been collected and identified via an industry-supported MERIWA project. The project will involve microprobe, scanning electron microscope, and micro CT analysis to characterize zircon grains from varied sources. Selected material would then be prepared for high precision (U-Th)/He and helium diffusion experiments. Full training would be provided in the instrumentation and analytical techniques to be applied

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Project: Structural Evolution of the AUS-PAC Plate Boundary in Southern New Zealand




Description: The relative tectonic simplicity of the obliquely convergent boundary between the Australian and Pacific Plates through southern New Zealand has long seen the region held up as a natural laboratory through which to develop understanding of fundamental orogenic processes. Although deformation in this region is today focused along the Alpine Fault zone to the west of the orogen, the extent of Pliocene-Recent convergence and exhumation has resulted in a low preservation potential for material that directly experienced the early development of the system, leaving its structural evolution incompletely understood. Pilot investigations have recently shown Thermochronological constraint to have the potential to resolve elements of this ambiguous history. This project will use (U-Th)/He thermochronometry of zircon and apatite to characterize the development and abandonment of fault structures during Miocene evolution of the plate boundary through southern New Zealand from a broad domain of transpressional structures to a coherent, unified fault system – the fore-runner of the modern Alpine Fault. No fieldwork would be required, as samples have already been collected. The project will involve petrographic and microprobe analysis to characterize samples. Zircon, apatite, and potentially other accessory phases will be selected and prepared for high precision geochemical and isotopic analysis, including thermochronometry. Full training would be provided in the instrumentation and analytical techniques to be applied

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Project: What are the forms of trace elements in sulfidic estuarine

sediments? Can we use trace elements as geochemical tracers in these systems?


Geology (environmental), Geochemistry, Environmental Geoscience, Land & Water Management

Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500 Description: Trace elements represent potential contaminants in aquatic sediments,

but may also be useful in determining the origin of sulfidic minerals in these systems. You would collect samples of monosulfide-rich sediments from the Peel-Harvey Estuary System or use archived samples. Using these sediments, you would measure the concentrations of different forms of trace elements using a range of chemical and spectroscopic analytical techniques. Normalised trace element concentrations would be related to geographical spatial distribution of the sediments.

Project: Understanding the mineralogy and geochemistry of regolith-hosted

rare-earth element mineralisation For majors including:

Geology, Environmental Science, Geochemistry, Environmental Geoscience, Land & Water Management, Soil Science

Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500 Description: We will work with an exploration company who have discovered

significant regolith rare-earth element (REE) reserves in south-eastern WA. The geochemistry and mineralogy of REE in deposits of this type is strongly dependent on the individual element involved, but the mechanisms for the differences are poorly understood. Since there are strong geochemical controls on the metallurgy and therefore economics of exploiting these resources, a greater fundamental understanding of the forms and behaviour of REE in regolith is required.

Project: Can rare earth element (REE) concentrations in vegetation explain

enrichment of rare earth elements in some surface soils? For majors including:

Geochemistry, Environmental Geoscience, Land & Water Management, Soil Science

Supervisor: Andrew Rate, [email protected], 6488 2500 Description: The biogeochemical cycling of trace elements in terrestrial ecosystems

is a surprisingly poorly-researched topic. You would sample vegetation growing on regolith profiles that are geochemically well-characterised. Plant tissues would be analysed for REE concentrations, and mass balances calculated to assess the significance of plant uptake on REE cycling in these systems. It will likely be necessary to measure other REE pools (such as regolith pore water) to complete the mass balance. See also: Du, X., Rate, A.W. and Gee, M. 2011. Mineralogical Magazine 75, 784.

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Project: The quantification of hydrothermal mineralising systems For majors including:

All Geoscience topics

Supervisor: Alison Ord, [email protected], 6488 2642, Mark Munro, Steve Micklethwaite

Description: This research program is designed as a training project for students and young researchers, with special focus on the analysis of complex geological systems through a combination of structure quantification and modelling. The non-linearity of many geological systems has been increasingly recognized during the past decades. Processes within such systems act far away from equilibrium and lead to complex structures. A rigorous theoretical and observational foundation for these processes is crucial for understanding the short-term as well as long-term behaviour of our geological environment that provides the basis for our social, cultural and economic life. Specific projects will focus on mineralisation under hydrothermal conditions – a process that combines fundamental physical and chemical procedures in crystalline matter with fluid flow under various conditions, leading e.g. to economically important mineral deposits and geothermal fields, as well as affecting the long- and short-term response of the lithosphere to stresses, e.g. expressed in the formation of mountain belts and in earthquakes. The projects will be based on a combination of field-related recording of structures with subsequent quantification and application of numerical modelling. This allows (i) to investigate in detail the effects of various physical and chemical parameters on hydrothermally driven mineralisation, (ii) to compare modelled structures with natural ones and, consequently, (iii) to calibrate and refine the numerical models, which again allows more detailed investigations. Resources are available in 2014 for collaborative research in Germany through a Go8/DAAD project. The project may lead to MSc or PhD studies.

potential research projects offered for level 4 (honours ...€¦ · geology, geophysics, petroleum...

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