Project description
The Grøntua deposit is a newly discovered eSMS located at the Mohns Ridge of the Arctic Mid Ocean Ridges. The deposit was found during a research cruise led by Center for Deep Sea Research at UiB in summer 2024. It is located at a depth of approximately 1175 mbsl, has a diameter of 150 m and extends 60 m above the seafloor. The area was revisited and additionally sampled in March/April 2025.
This deposit represents an ideal site to study geological processes that control the fate of SMS mineralization after a seafloor hydrothermal system goes from its active to the extinct phase. The main goal of this Master project is to collect textural, mineralogical, chemical and sulfur isotope data of the Grøntua eSMS deposit and identify possible preservation mechanisms. The study will combine phase analyses (transmitted and reflected microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy), major and trace element analyses (SEM/EDS, LA-ICP-MS) and sulfur isotope analyses of individual mineral phases with the fluid inclusion study.
Proposed course plan during the master's degree (60 ECTS)
Geo3130 - Ore Geology - UiT
Fluid Inclusions in hydrothermal mineral deposits
Dyphavstokt i arktiske farvann (spesialpensum)
GEOV342 Den geokjemiske verktøykassen
GEOV245 Geomikrobiologi
GEOV242 Magmatisk og metamorf petrologi
GEOV243 Mikroskopi
Field-, lab- and analysis work
The study will be based on material that has already been collected. However, the student is encouraged to participate in future expeditions organized by the Center for Deep Sea Research. The analytical work will include phase analyses (reflected microscopy, XRD, Raman spectroscopy), element analyses (SEM/EDS, LA-ICP-MS), sulfur isotope analyses, and the study of fluid inclusions.
The various instruments and analytical methods required for the study are all available and established at the institute or with partners. The study will provide the student with insight into ore-forming processes related to the formation of seafloor crust, which is currently relevant for resource-related questions. Additionally, the study will provide insight into a range of analytical methods that are relevant for both resource and environmental issues.
Supervisors
Sabina Palinkas (main supervisor)
Rolf Birger Pedersen UiB-GEO
Håvard Stubseid, UiB-GEO