Here are some of the facilities used for study and research by undergraduate geosciences students
Facilities
Microscope Lab
More than 15 petrographic microscopes are available for teaching and research uses.
Laser Ablation & Mass Spec Lab
A GBC Optimass 9500 ICP-Time of Flight-MS with a laser ablation system is available for trace element analysis of solid samples. This system has been used to measure the trace element chemistry of carbonate rocks for application to water quality issues and of spices by forensic chemists at TU to determine the region of geographic origin.
Clean Room
Multiple clean rooms are available for preparation of rock and water samples for trace or isotopic analysis
Scanning Electron Microscope
The department now houses a brand new Phenom ProX tabletop scanning electron microscope with fully integrated EDS capabilities. This low vacuum tabletop SEM is capable of accelerating voltages between 5kV and 15kV and magnifications up to 130,000x. The low vacuum allows for visualization of uncoated specimens and biologic samples. This SEM also utilizes a digital color navigation camera and automated navigation to regions of interest. The EDS system utilizes a silicon drift detector with detection of elements from B to Am.
Stream Table
A 10-foot long stream table is used in introductory geology labs, upper division classes, and even academic research. This table gives the ability to watch stream systems develop right before your eyes. Set up the landscape of your choice (e.g., flat, sloped, valleys, wells), turn on the water, and let nature (in miniature) take its course.
UEBL
Geology faculty are an integral part of the Urban Environmental Biogeochemistry Laboratory (UEBL), which is a collaborative effort between the departments of biology, chemistry, and physics, astronomy, and geosciences, and supports student and faculty research in these departments as well as the Environmental Science Program.
UEBL Website