Geological Science

The Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Laboratory offers micro to nanoscale SEM imaging and chemical analysis of various rock types, playing a critical role in a wide range of funded research projects related to reservoir characterization, fracture measurements and interpretation, and unconventional resources. Equipped with a newly acquired Zeiss Sigma High Vacuum Field Emission SEM, the laboratory specializes in generating large-area, high-resolution, automated image mosaics for fracture-scaling studies. This advanced imaging capability supports innovative research in geological sciences and resource exploration.

Services Offered

• Scanning electron microscopy for micro- to nanoscale imaging
• Elemental analysis via EDS and WDS
• High-resolution imaging for geological samples
• Consulting on SEM techniques and data interpretation

The Fluid Inclusion Analysis Laboratory at UT Austin's Structural Diagenesis Initiative is dedicated to studying fluid inclusions, which serve as natural time capsules revealing the history of minerals and rocks. The lab employs advanced techniques like microthermometry and Raman spectroscopy to analyze fluid properties and their evolution. Researchers investigate the mechanisms of fracture formation and cementation, contributing to a deeper understanding of subsurface processes and resource management. This facility is essential for interdisciplinary studies in geochemistry and geology.

Services Offered

• Fluid inclusion analysis for geological research
• Microthermometry measurement and interpretation
• Sample preparation and petrographic analysis
• Training in fluid inclusion microscopy
• Collaborative research in mineral and hydrothermal systems

The Nuclear and Radiation Engineering Program at UT Austin advances nuclear science through research and education, with a focus on radiation effects, radioisotope production, and environmental applications. Based in the Nuclear Engineering Teaching Lab, the program provides hands-on experience with a TRIGA reactor and advanced nuclear facilities. Services include Neutron Activation Analysis, Prompt Gamma Activation Analysis for element concentration mapping, Neutron Radiography, and sample irradiations. The program prepares students for impactful careers in nuclear technology and promotes public understanding through outreach and tours.

Services Offered

• Access to nuclear reactor for research and education
• Neutron activation analysis
• Radiotracer studies and isotope production
• Training and safety protocols for reactor use

The PEACE LAB (Plasma Elemental Analysis Core) at UT Austin’s Jackson School of Geosciences specializes in trace element analysis for a variety of liquid and solid samples. Utilizing inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and laser ablation (LA-ICP-MS) methods, the lab offers services for ultra-trace and isotopic analyses, supporting research in environmental science, geology, and biology. The lab provides educational courses and collaborative research opportunities, assisting users in precise elemental mapping and concentration studies.

Services Offered

• Plasma-based elemental analysis
• Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS)
• Trace metal detection and isotopic analysis
• Consultation on plasma elemental analysis techniques

Services Offered

• Vibrating sample magnetometry for nanoscale materials
• Analysis of magnetic properties
• Sample preparation for magnetometry
• Consultation on experimental design for magnetic studies

Services Offered

• Analysis of soil physical and chemical properties
• Soil nutrient and contaminant testing
• Consultation on soil management and conservation
• Support for environmental and agricultural research

The UT Austin Bureau of Economic Geology’s Near Surface Observatory features LiDAR and hyperspectral data analysis for environmental monitoring and geological research. The observatory's advanced imaging helps capture and analyze surface-level environmental features, supporting studies in fields such as geology, environmental science, and resource management. This program enhances the understanding of Texas’s diverse terrains and provides actionable data for sustainable management and hazard assessment.

Services Offered

• High-resolution LIDAR mapping for surface studies
• Geospatial data collection and processing
• Terrain and vegetation analysis
• Support for geological and environmental research

Services Offered

• Large-scale structural testing for natural hazards
• Wind, earthquake, and wave simulation
• Data collection and analysis for structural resilience
• Collaboration for engineering and safety research

The E-beam Lab houses an electron microprobe with five wavelength-dispersive spectrometers (WDS) and a large-area energy-dispersive spectrometer (EDS) on our low-vacuum SEM for non-destructive in-situ elemental characterization. Both can be used to qualitatively or quantitatively map elemental concentration variations (>100s of ppm) from the micron to the cm scale, as well as ~1 cubic micron focused beam analyses (>10 ppm).

Services Offered

• Electron beam lithography for nanoscale fabrication
• Patterning for semiconductor and materials science research
• Access to precision e-beam instrumentation
• Collaboration on micro- and nanoscale device manufacturing
• Technical consulting and training for e-beam processes

The Industrial CT Scanning Facility provides high-resolution, non-destructive density mapping for solid samples, including rocks and fossils, up to 50 cm in diameter, 150 cm in height, and a mass of 50 kg. This facility utilizes an advanced industrial CT scanner, adapted from medical CAT scanning technology, to deliver detailed internal imaging, supporting researchers in fields that require precise, internal structural analysis of diverse sample types

Services Offered

• High-resolution 3D imaging of geological, biological, and engineered samples
• Non-destructive internal structure analysis
• Custom scanning for specific research needs
• Consultation on data interpretation and visualization for tomography studies