Acquisition of a dilatometer for accurate measurement of thermal expansivity of geologically relevant materials over -180 to 2000oC

Washington University, Saint Louis MO

Investigators

Abstract

1255774 Hofmeister This Division of Earth Sciences Instrumentation and Facilities Program grant supports acquisition of push rod dilatometer capable of high precision measurements of the thermal expansivity of minerals, glasses and materials over a broad range of temperatures (180 ? 2000 deg C ) relevant to study of the thermal evolution of deep Earth and crustal phases. This would be the first such instrument of its kind in an Earth Sciences academic research department. The effect of temperature on the expansion and contraction of Earth materials is a fundamental property needed to constrain models of mantle convection. Few reliable data of thermal expansivity of deep Earth phases exist that were acquired at in situ temperature conditions and with sufficient confidence to provide realistic constraints on geodynamic models. The PI would use the instrument to develop an extensive database on the thermal expansivity of a wide range of geomaterials starting first with well characterized single-crystals phases and glasses relevant to the Earth's crust and mantle. The PI intends to engage students in experiential learning through hands on measurements. ***