High MgO basalts on St. Vincent and evolution of volcanism on the island

Geochemistry of volcanic/hydrothermal systems

 

Geological Mapping and Geochonology in Northern Dominica.



High MgO basalts on St. Vincent and evolution of volcanism on the island. Ongoing investigations of the geology of the southern volcanic centres on St. Vincent island with particular reference to the occurrence of high MgO basalts and their relationship to the development of magmatism on the island. Principal Investigator: Richard Robertson

Geochemistry of volcanic/hydrothermal systems. The main objective here is to use gas and water geochemistry changes as a tool for volcano monitoring. It includes the chemical classification of the types of fluids according to their origin (e.g., volcanic, meteoric…) as well as the study of equilibrium condition for such fluids (as a function of temperature, pressure – hence depth – and geochemical buffers which govern rock-water interactions). Supervision of a PhD student (Erouscilla Joseph) on the subject.
Principal Investigators:  Erouscilla Joseph

 

Geological Mapping and Geochronology in Northern Dominica. Current research focuses on the detailed geological mapping and geochronology (Ar/Ar) of the Morne Aux Diables (MAD) dome complex in northern Dominica. The MAD volcanic complex has been experiencing elevated seismic activity since June 2009 and an updated detailed geological map of the area is needed for improved hazard and risk assessment. This research also involves field mapping and various geochemical techniques on samples collected.
Principal Investigators: Robert Watts