Mapping the Crust in 4D
The ANU Sensitive High Resolution Ion MicroProbe (SHRIMP) analyses elemental and isotopic compositions of solids on a 10 micron scale by sputtering the surface of the specimen with a focused primary ion beam and analysing the ejected secondary ions. Image: AuScope
The Mapping the Crust in Four Dimensions (MAC4D) project aimed to enhance ANU's SHRIMP-II age-mass spectrometer's capabilities, enabling the measurement of multiple isotopes crucial for mapping Australia's crust in four dimensions. This initiative helped facilitate the creation of integrated isotope-age maps, aiding in the discovery of new critical minerals.
Overview
Led by Professor Penelope King and Dr Yue Wang from ANU, this project encompassed multiple objectives to enhance the SHRIMP laboratory's capabilities. It included technological upgrades, cataloguing efforts, measurement campaigns, and community engagement initiatives through access awards. The project leveraged ANU SHRIMP's expertise to generate crucial isotopic data that contributed to Australia's geoscience research landscape.
The Challenge
The project aimed to address limitations in isotopic measurement capabilities, restricting a comprehensive understanding of Australia's geological formations. By upgrading SHRIMP-II and expanding its analytical capabilities, the project addressed the need for detailed isotopic data crucial to mineral exploration and geological studies.
Outcomes
Upgraded SHRIMP-II instrument enabling multi-collector measurement of targeted isotopes to help expand on earth, planetary, environmental and materials micro-scale analysis.
Comprehensive digital catalogue of zircon mounts facilitating easier access and reference for greater paleoclimate and geochemical modelling.
Initiation of O and U-Pb isotopic measurements in accessory minerals to assist in developing temporal frameworks and reconstructing thermal and fluid evolution of rocks and ore systems.
Facilitation of new research projects through "AuScope Access Awards” to enable cross-sector partnerships and broader participation with international networks.
Delivery of isotopic data to the AusGeochem databases for broader accessibility and integration into 4D isotope-age maps.
Who will benefit
Australian researchers in geoscience, mineral exploration companies, and government agencies involved in resource management will benefit from enhanced access to isotopic data. The project's outcomes will support informed decision-making and scientific advancements in understanding Australia's geological history.
Access
Instrument Access: Users must submit a booking form available on the ANU SHRIMP website or submit an application via email. Internal users may apply monthly or via email. Access during a transitional period requires completion of a SHRIMP training course.
Data Access: Processed data will be provided to users via the SHRIMP server, with a FAIR data plan implemented through the EarthBank Platform.
Project Name
Mapping Crust in 4D
Project Lead
Timeframe
2021 to 2023
Status
Completed
Funding
AuScope Pilots 3
Host
ANU
Other Collaborations
CSIRO
Geoscience Australia
Griffith University
Macquarie University
University of Wollongong
University of Sydney
University of Adelaide
University of Queensland
AuScope Programs
Acknowledging AuScope
This project was made possible by support from the National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) through AuScope. Acknowledging AuScope and NCRIS helps us demonstrate the value of shared research infrastructure, ensuring continued support and resources for the research community.
If you helped deliver this project or have benefited from its outputs, please credit AuScope so we can include your work in our impact reporting. For examples of acknowledgment, please visit our ‘How to Acknowledge AuScope’ page.
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