Geo-Material Science & Resources

Understanding Earth’s Inaccessible Interior, probing Earth’s Extreme Conditions and creating Bio-Inspired Innovation

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Our research employs a multidisciplinary approach combining advanced computational chemistry and high-pressure mineralogy experiments to understand the structure and dynamics of the Earth’s interior. Since direct access to the planet is limited, we simulate the physical and thermodynamic properties of geologically relevant materials—minerals, melts, and fluids—under the extreme pressure and temperature conditions found deep within the Earth. As mineral physicists, we conduct laboratory experiments using diamond anvil cells and in situ spectroscopic and diffraction diagnostics to generate planetary interior conditions. Parallel to this, we use first-principles methods like Density Functional Theory (DFT) and develop advanced machine-learning potentials to model material behavior, predict phase stability, and interpret experimental data, ultimately deepening our understanding of Earth's evolution and material recycling from the surface to the deep mantle.

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A crucial focus is placed on the properties of silicate and oxide melts and glasses, which are central to understanding processes ranging from early Earth formation events, like the lunar-forming collision, to modern volcanism and suspected deep-Earth melting at boundaries such as the core-mantle boundary. Similarly, we investigate the molecular structure and dynamics of aqueous fluids using hydrothermal diamond anvil cells and molecular dynamics simulations, as these fluids are critical for most geological processes in the crust and mantle. Our work also examines structural phase transitions and the role of interfaces, as the kinetics of these changes and transport along grain boundaries govern geochemical processes and the overall stability of materials in the Earth.

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The rheology, or flow properties, of geological materials is essential for understanding Earth's dynamics. We study the rheology of magma, constrained by volatile exsolution and crystal content, which controls volcanic eruption styles and geothermal processes. Furthermore, we investigate rock rheology using experimentally deformed samples and natural fault rocks to better understand plate tectonics, seismic activity, and material fluxes. Finally, we apply rock magnetism to reconstruct the history of the geomagnetic field by analyzing the thermochemical remanence acquired by volcanic rocks, investigating the conditions that preserve or alter this critical paleomagnetic record.

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We also work on understanding the thermochemical remanence acquisition in volcanic rocks. Volcanic rocks, whose iron oxides ideally acquire a thermoremanent magnetisation during their initial cooling, are essential to reconstruct the history of the geomagnetic dipole strength over geological time. However, magneto-mineralogical transformations occurring during or after the emplacement of the rocks give rise to various types of thermochemical remanent magnetisations. Through thermomagnetic experiments, microscopic observations, structural analyses, and theoretical considerations, we investigate the conditions leading to the preservation or alteration of the palaeomagnetic record. Identifying such conditions is essential for a robust interpretation of the absolute palaeointensity database.

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A second key pillar of our work is Bio-inspired Materials and Nanostructures. Our research into biomineralization focuses on how organisms precisely control mineral formation to produce highly functional, strong structures like bones, shells, and teeth. We use organisms such as calcareous sponges and cichlid fish as model systems to investigate the genetics, evolution, and hierarchical structure of these mineral-organic nanocomposites, particularly those based on apatite, which is crucial for vertebrate hard tissues. This understanding is translated into the development of biomimetic materials, such as apatite-protein nanocomposites suitable for dental repair and bone implants, aiming for superior mechanical properties and biocompatibility.