At the helm of the new CAMECA 1300HR3
Professor Axel Schmitt with a large-geometry ion microprobe at Heidelberg University. Image: University of Heidelberg
From investigating the duration of magma accumulation underneath erupting volcanoes to tracing geomaterials in archaeology and exploring the causes of colour in gemstones, Professor Axel Schmitt's career has revolved around his curiosity for minerals. In April, he is stepping into the role of Facility Leader of the new NCRIS enabled AuScope large-geometry ion microprobe, a tool that will support Australia’s critical minerals future.
Charting a Course for Innovation
Professor Schmitt brings expertise and experience to this new component of Curtin University's John de Laeter Centre. With his leadership, the new facility is expected to become a hub for world-class research and innovation in Australia. In reflecting on the new ion microprobe Curtin University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Harlene Hayne, highlighted the diverse application of the new tool:
“This new instrument will be used by Earth scientists to determine the composition and evolution of the Australian continent, mineral deposits and surface materials, and will support space scientists to analyse meteorites discovered in the Australian outback and asteroid fragments recovered during international deep space missions.”
John de Laeter Centre Launch
From left: Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston, Research Professor Chris Moran, Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Professor Harlene Hayne, and Ambassador of France to Australia, H.E. Mr Jean-Pierre Thébault at Curtin University's John de Laeter Centre. Image: Curtin University
The launch of the new facility marks the culmination of years of effort and represents a significant milestone for geoscience research in Australia. Mr Jean-Pierre Thébault, the Ambassador of France and Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Johnston MLA, launched the NCRIS enabled AuScope Ion Microprobe at Curtin University's John de Laeter Centre on the 14th of October 2022.
Unlocking the Secrets of Critical Minerals
The new instrument will allow researchers to analyse minerals and trace elements in greater detail than ever before, providing insights into the geological processes forming these resources and the potential for new mineral discoveries. With Australia being a significant producer of critical minerals such as lithium, rare earth elements, and cobalt, this new capability will play an essential role in furthering our understanding of how these minerals systems form deposits and how to find them, ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of these resources into the future.
“The ion microprobe is the ultimate tool for sensitive and precise isotope analysis of solids, covering almost the entire periodic table from hydrogen to uranium. Minimally destructive, it excels whenever spatial resolution and/or sample conservation are essential.”
– Professor Axel Schmitt
AUTHOR
Philomena Manifold
FURTHER READING
John de Laeter Research Centre