EART3311 Earth Materials Microcharacterisation [UG]

The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of going to press but may be subject to change. For the most up-to-date information click on the Timetable link below.

Credit: 6 points Availability: Semester 2 (See Timetable) Old unit code: 520.311

Outcomes: Students are able to decide which, if any, microscopy techniques are needed to solve their geoscience questions. Specifically, they are able to plan analytical programmes, including sample preparation; use scanning electron microscope and X-ray microanalysis facilities; understand the applications of electron imaging and microanalysis to geoscience problems; manipulate digital image and related spectral data with current software; judge the quality of images and analytical data; and use images and mineral composition data to answer geoscience questions.

Content: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microanalysis (EMPA) are advanced microcharacterisation tools that are widely used in the earth and environmental sciences. Digital image and compositional data are attainable down to the nanometre scale with these tools and are used to characterise minerals and fossils in most earth science and environmental research areas. This unit covers the fundamentals of current technology in SEM and EMPA, with examples of applications to problem solving in the earth sciences and related areas. The theory covers the basics of scanning electron microscopy and electron microprobe analysis, and is supported by interactive multimedia software packages including 'Virtual SEM', 'Virtual EDS' and digital image processing packages. Practical laboratory sessions cover the basic operation of scanning electron microscopes and microanalytical systems, with exercises selected to match student interests. Topics include analysis of kimberlite/lamproite and diamond indicator minerals; compositions and textures of metamorphic/hydrothermal rocks and applications to thermobarometry; cathodoluminescence studies of carbonates and/or quartz to determine depositional histories of sediments/ore deposits; mineral modal analysis and/or bulk composition determination by analysis of backscattered electron images; and electron imaging and identification of microfossils. Successful students achieve formal certification in the operation of SEM and EMPA facilities.

Assessment: This comprises five laboratory reports (60 per cent) and a final examination (40 per cent).

Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit except in the case of a bachelor's pass degree student who has obtained a mark of 45 to 49 and is currently enrolled in this unit, and it is the only remaining unit that the student must pass in order to complete their course.

Unit Co-ordinator(s): Associate Professor Brendan Griffin and Dr Janet Muhling

Location: UWA (Crawley)

Mode: on-campus

Unit Rules:

Prerequisites: completion of 48 points

Advisable prior study: completion of 24 points of Level 2 geology or equivalent

Contact hours—lectures: 3 hrs per week for 6 weeks; labs: 4 hrs per week for 6 weeks; tutorials: on request

Assistance with study skills, including English language skills, is available free of charge from Student Services for all enrolled students (see http://www.studysmarter.uwa.edu.au/). Student Services location: Second Floor, South Wing, Guild Village; telephone: 6488 2423.

Books and other material wherever listed may be subject to change. Book lists relating to 'Preliminary Reading', 'Recommended Reading' and 'Textbooks' are, in most cases, available at the University Co-operative Bookshop (from early January) and appropriate administrative offices for students to consult. For first-year units the Bookshop will endeavour to make available photocopies of book lists for individual units. Books marked with an asterisk (*) are available in paperback.