Research

Examples of current research programs are:

1. the development of models that use isotopic composition data from element pairs in fluids to constrain fluid flow rates, water-mineral reaction rates, and the geometry and spacing of fractures in rock matrices;
2. the development and application of noble gas isotopes as natural tracers for fluid source and movement in hydrocarbon and geothermal systems, and as induced phase-partitioning tracers for monitoring the geologic sequestration of CO2,
3. development of techniques for dating Quaternary geological events using U-Th-He,
4. geochemical monitoring and analysis of large-scale experiments simulating the effects of nuclear waste heat generation within the proposed repository in Yucca Mountain, Nevada;
5. the use of C, N, and O isotopes to quantify in situ bioremediation and monitor remediation;
6. the use of carbon isotopes to quantify rates of organic carbon cycling and storage efficiency in soils, the impact of climate change on carbon cycling, and linkages between carbon, water, and nitrogen cycles; and
7. applications of hydrogen and oxygen isotopes to issues concerning the water cycle.