Controls on mineral-fluid oxygen isotope fractionations in specific geologic systems

The aim of this project is to improve our knowledge on low temperature processes governing oxygen isotope fractionations between minerals and fluids in natural systems through detailed studies of the growth mechanisms and textural as well as chemical and isotopic zonation of crystals. Questions on kinetic versus equilibrium processes will be examined in detail. Emphasis will be placed on sampling different generations of natural crystals that have formed at different temperatures and different chemical compositions of the fluids. The age and conditions of formation of the crystals will be evaluated through studies of their fluid and mineral inclusions.