J. McPhie, M. Doyle, R. Allen (1993) - Volcanic Textures - Centre for Ore Deposit and Exploration Studies - University of Tasmania, 196pp.
Specific scientific papers and hardcopy of the slides of the course.
Learning Objectives
Knowledge acquired:
Multidisciplinary methods (lab and field) for the interpretation of the volcanic process.
Competence acquired:
Recognition of the role of pre- and syn-eruptive processes in the eruptive dynamics, as recorded in the macro-micro-scale features of products and deposits
Skills acquired (at the end of the course):
Collection, analysis and interpretation of textural, compositional and field data related to specific volcanologic problems.
Teaching tools
Blackboard, video-projector for computer, optical microscope, computer
Further information
Frequency of lectures, practice and lab.: Frequency of lessons is highly recommended, but not mandatory; frequency of at least 2/3 of practice and lab is required
Type of Assessment
Written reports on the different practical activities and final oral examination.
Course program
Introduction to the multiple methods for the investigation of the volcanic process in laboratory and in the field.
Micro-textural characterization of the volcanic products and deposits by optical and electronic microscopy.
Crystal and Vesicle size distribution (CSD- VSD) of volcanic products; methods of data collection (image analysis) and data reduction. Examples from different eruptive styles.
The role and interpretation of the pre-eruptive magmatic processes: examples and relative interpretation of evolutionary trends by petrographic and chemical data on volcanic products, meaning of textural and compositional zoning of minerals.
Estimation of the volatile contents in magmas by analysing the volcanic glasses (in groundmasses and in melt inclusions).
Methods of analysis of pyroclastic deposits. Thematic mapping of pyroclastic deposits (isopach, isopleth, facies maps). Quantitative evaluation of the main physical parameters of explosive eruptions (density, volumes, column heights, exit velocity, total grain size).
Electron microscopy morphological analysis of volcanic ash, with special reference to eruptive styles and fragmentation mechanisms.
Each topic will be developed with frontal lessons and practical exercises in classroom, lab and field.