Faculty Advisor: Dr. Linda Godfrey
Project Description: The Proterozoic crystalline rocks of the New Jersey Highlands host numerous iron deposits which, a little over a century ago, made NJ the leading iron producer in the country. Different models have been proposed for the origin of these deposits (magmatic, precipitation from hydrothermal fluids in the subsurface or aquatic systems). These small, but accessible deposits can also provide analogs to major deposits being mined elsewhere.
The project will initially focus on the abandoned Edison Mine where magnetite, sulfide minerals and host rock will be collected. The different formation models will be evaluated geochemically, primarily from metal (Fe, Cu) isotopes to distinguish between primary magmatic and extraction from host rocks. This project will involve fieldwork and collection of samples as well as working on pre-collected samples. The student will help describe materials in hand samples and thin section, but the primary focus is geochemical characterization. The student will be trained the laboratory techniques that are used to dissolve and isolate different metals, and then assist in the analysis using instruments in EPS. The student will assist in the reduction and interpretation of data, and finally in the evaluation of the proposed models of metal enrichment. The project will involve collaboration with researchers external to Rutgers.
Timeframe: Every semester
Funds for Salary: No
Available for Independent Study Credits: Yes