In-Situ Sensors for Monitoring the Chemistry of Hydrothermal Fluids: Experimental Calibration and Field Applications

University Of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Minneapolis MN

Investigators

Abstract

This proposal is for the continuation of the development, calibration, testing, and deployment of in situ chemical sensors to make measurements at hydrothermal vents, especially instruments that can be left in place for long periods of monitoring, consistent with the evolving strategies involving long time series measurements. To now, successfully developed instruments measure H2, H2S, and pH. In this proposal the PIs propose to make these existing instruments smaller, more robust, and better suited for long deployments. In addition they propose to develop, calibrate and test new sensors to measure pH based on Ir/IrO2 and Ti/TiO2 materials, a new Na ion sensor made of NASICON ceramic (which can also serve as a reference electrode for pH measurements), and an electrochemical CO2 sensor. Developing successful instruments will require longer term testing and calibration and in situ testing at actual hydrothermal vents.