ICP-MS Lab Research

Current research projects on trace metals include:

• Environmental contamination of water systems
• Metal compositions of human bone
• Volcanic and geothermal fluids
• Sources of arsenic in groundwater in Bangladesh

Environmental contamination of water systems [back to top]

We investigate the trace element and metal emissions resulting from power production at coal-fired and nuclear power plants. We monitor the dry deposition of air particulates released during coal combustion, and study the effects of this deposition on regional watersheds and drinking supply sources. We measure and track trace metals and organic contaminants in groundwater and surface water systems in relation to mine-acid drainage, industrial and agricultural processes, and landfills. We also track the transport of radionuclides (e.g. tritium, Tc-99) from nuclear power plants.

Investigators: Robert J. Poreda, Tom Darrah, Amanda Carey, Zoë Harrold

Metal compositions of human bone [back to top]

We investigate trace element incorporation into human bone from dietary, medical, and anthropogenic sources. We explore the use of trace element concentrations in bone for forensic and geographical provenance studies. We also explore relations between trace metal concentrations and bone pathology such as osteoporosis and related fracture.

Investigators: Tom Darrah

Trabecular femoral head bone tissue affected by severe osteoporosis resulting in fracture.

Volcanic and geothermal fluids [back to top]

We investigate trace metal concentrations of volcanic and geothermal fluids to evaluate transport and interactions within the Earth's crust. Trace elements can be used to evaluate the energy potential of geothermal fields. We also use fluid compositions to determine histories of water-rock interactions. Temporal changes in fluid composition are used to indicate eruptive potential of active volcanic systems.

Investigators: Robert J. Poreda, Tom Darrah

Sources of arsenic in groundwater in Bangladesh [back to top]

We investigate sources of dissolved arsenic in the groundwaters of the Bengal Basin, which represents a health risk to the regional population. We found that all of the As present in groundwater wells can be attributed to As release from weathering of micas and bacterial breakdown of iron-hydroxides in the sub-surface sediments. Younger near surface volcanic sediments have greater As release potential than deeper sediments, which have been flushed over a longer time period. Because young, organic rich, naturally occurring sediments with limited diffusivity are the source of the arsenic, groundwater will remain a long-term problem for people in the Bengal Basin.