Radiogenic Isotope Geochemistry: A Guide for Industry Professionals

Description

Isotopes provide important information on many geological processes, with key relevance to the mining and petroleum industries, yet the techniques to obtain, process and interpret the data can be complex to master. This accessible book provides broad coverage of radiogenic isotopes in geochronology and geochemistry, explaining the basic principles and state-of-the-art techniques used to study them, with an emphasis on industry applications. The major isotopic systems are fully summarised with relation to real-world applications, enabling readers to decide which technique is most relevant for the problem they want to solve, and then to rigorously evaluate existing data, or recalculate and reassess datasets to avoid duplication of effort. A comprehensive glossary clarifies the numerous acronyms used in the field. Written at a level appropriate for advanced undergraduate students, the book also includes detail which allows more experienced practitioners to maximise the potential value of isotopic datasets.

Bruce F. Schaefer is a Senior Lecturer in Isotope Geochemistry at Macquarie University, Sydney. His work uses isotopes to solve a broad range of geological problems by identifying and subsequently applying, or on occasion developing, an appropriate isotopic tracer to solve the issue. His research interests include planetary differentiation, mantle plumes, Precambrian geodynamics and magmatic processes. Dr Schaefer was awarded the Tate Memorial Medal for original research from Adelaide University, where he graduated from. He held positions at the Open University, UK, and Monash University, Australia, before moving to Macquarie. His publications include work on magmatism, Precambrian tectonics, mineralised systems, groundwater, weathering rates, geophysics and meteorites.

'A delightfully refreshing contribution that transcends the often jargon-rich and elusive field of radiogenic isotope geochemistry. It furnishes a digestible precis of the field, encompassing its theory, methods and real-world applications, and constitutes a perfect addition to the library of the student and well-versed geological professional alike.' Geordie Mark, Head, Mining Research, Haywood Securities Inc., British Columbia 'Isotopes are a key element in most geological investigations. They are used to determine the ages of rocks and minerals, and the nature of the processes involved in their formation. There is a great need to make both the information available, and perhaps more critically, the problems that can be addressed using isotopes more readily accessible. This book focuses on economic geology, but it will be extremely useful to anyone who wishes to understand and to manipulate isotope data. It's a handy reference that can be dipped into with a particular isotope system in mind. Accessible and clearly written by someone very used to teaching isotope geochemistry to students with a wide range of backgrounds and interests, it will be welcomed by those seeking to make the most of isotopes in economic geology and elsewhere.' Chris Hawkesworth, University of Bristol 'Isotope methods provide the explorer with a great tool for investigating the sources, pathways and interactions of, and between, geological materials. This concise reference summarises both the fundamental science of isotope geology and the multitude of ways different systems can be used to aid the explorer. This book is an excellent reference for all levels of industry professionals looking to ensure the robust use of isotope data in practical exploration.' Nic Rosengren, Principal Geologist, Barrick Gold Corporation 'Isotope geochemistry is considered by many non-experts to be a formidable topic. This important reference book is a well-written introduction into the complex subject of isotope geochemistry, and provides a useful tool for deciphering the basic principles involved ... The first part provides the necessary background about isotopes and isotope geochemistry ... The second part ... describes how isotope systems can be used to determine geological ages and rates ... [it] also provides an in-depth treatment of U-Pb and Pb-Pb geochronology, the most robust geochronometer ... [as well as] excellent summaries of Ar geochronology, and illustrates how Re-Os geochronology can be used to date sulfide deposits. The third part ... focuses on the use of isotopes as tracers ... and ends with an interesting chapter on new developments in radiogenic isotopes. It is not only for industry professionals, but for anyone with a minimal geochemical background, who wants a useful, readable guide to understanding isotope geochemistry in geological systems.' Kaj Hoernle, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research, Christian Albrechts University of Kiel '... plain-talk for the industry.' Holly Stein, AIRIE Program, Colorado State University, and Centre for Earth Evolution and Dynamics, University of Oslo