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Heather A Lowers

Heather Lowers is a Research Geologist with the Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center.

Science and Products

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SEM image of carbonatite

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
link

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
Learn More
link
Old JEOL Scanning Electron Microscope.

Denver Microbeam Laboratory: Mineral Resources Research Support

The USGS Denver Microbeam Laboratory provides chemical analysis and characterization of rocks, minerals, and environmental samples in support of a wide variety of USGS projects related to mineral resources, including research projects funded by the USGS Mineral Resources Program. The research applications for these projects range from mineral resource research and assessments, to geologic mapping...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
link

Denver Microbeam Laboratory: Mineral Resources Research Support

The USGS Denver Microbeam Laboratory provides chemical analysis and characterization of rocks, minerals, and environmental samples in support of a wide variety of USGS projects related to mineral resources, including research projects funded by the USGS Mineral Resources Program. The research applications for these projects range from mineral resource research and assessments, to geologic mapping...
Learn More
link
Lung Tissue

Department of Defense Lung Study

Between 2003 and the present, 2.2 million U.S. military personnel have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. These deployers have been variably exposed to desert dusts, smoke from burn pits, and urban particulate matter, and some have developed constrictive bronchiolitis. A study was undertaken to determine what, if any, markers were statistically different among biopsied lung tissue sections...
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
link

Department of Defense Lung Study

Between 2003 and the present, 2.2 million U.S. military personnel have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. These deployers have been variably exposed to desert dusts, smoke from burn pits, and urban particulate matter, and some have developed constrictive bronchiolitis. A study was undertaken to determine what, if any, markers were statistically different among biopsied lung tissue sections...
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 25

Physical and chemical data for dust deposited on Colorado Rocky Mountain snow cover during water year 2013 through water year 2016.

Atmospheric particulate matter deposited to snow cover diminishes snow-surface albedo and results in early onset and rapid snow melting, challenging management of downstream water resources. We present here physical and chemical data from snow samples from 14 sites during the melt seasons of water years 2013-16 across 60,000 km2 of the central Rocky Mountains within the Upper Colorado River basin.
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

Method development for determination of trace amounts of silicon in hydrofluoric acid digests of biological samples and lung biopsy tissues by ICP-MS

A method was described for determination of trace levels of silicon by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) from hydrofluoric (HF) digests of biological samples. The volatility of silicon in HF digests was examined with synthetic solutions as well as soil and mine waste samples. A digestion scheme was optimized to achieve complete dissolution, avoid loss of volatile silicon specie
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Stable isotope data for sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen in minerals and gases and electron microprobe data for minerals from Sulphur Bank mercury mine, Lake County, California

Stable isotope compositions (the ratios deuterium/hydrogen, oxygen-18/oxygen-16, and sulfur-34/sulfur-32) are reported for alunite, jarosite, kaolinite, silica, cinnabar, marcasite, and native sulfur from outcrops in and around the workings of the Sulphur Bank mercury mine, Lake County, California, and chemical compositions are reported, from electron microprobe analyses, for alunite and buddingto
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Data release of isotope geochemistry, mineral chemistry, and geochronology for a Proterozoic paragneiss sampled from drill core from North Dakota

This U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data release provides whole rock isotope geochemistry, zircon hafnium isotope geochemistry, feldspar mineral chemistry, and zircon, monazite, and xenotime geochronology for a paragneiss sampled from a drill core from North Dakota. The sample was collected from the 9-11R E-M Larson well in order to constrain the depositional age, provenance, metamorphic history, a
By
Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Geochemical Analysis of Bulk Dust and Human Respiratory Cells and Fluids in Research on Deployment-related Lung Injury

Multiple techniques including, x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, laser diffraction particle analysis, and inductively coupled plasma spectrometry, were used to characterize the morphology and composition of dust used for biological studies as well as lung tissue from rats, personnel deployed to Southwest Asia, and control samples. The data presented in this release are organized in
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Trace element chemistry of sulfides and quartz, in situ sulfur isotope values of sulfides, cathodoluminescence of quartz, fluid inclusion microthermometry and raman, and radiogenic isotope and whole rock geochemistry from the Stibnite-Yellow Pine district

This dataset is a collection of geochemical data on samples from the Stibnite-Yellow Pine district of Idaho. The datasets include: whole rock geochemistry; lead, strontium and neodymium isotope chemistry of sulfides and whole rock samples by isotope dilution-thermal-mass spectrometry (ID-TIMS); in situ sulfur isotope chemistry of sulfides by laser ablation-multi collector-inductively coupled-mass
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Microanalysis of samples collected from sandstone-hosted uranium and vanadium deposits in the Colorado Plateau: Utah, New Mexico and Colorado, USA

These data are microanalyses of 91 polished thin sections that were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) to identify minerals and observe their relationships at high magnification. Samples are from the Triassic Chinle and Jurassic Morrison Formations and adjacent units, which are the main hosts for sandstone-hosted uranium-vanadi
By
Central Energy Resources Science Center

Data release of geochemistry and geochronology for Proterozoic rocks in southwestern Colorado and rocks from drill core from Colorado, North Dakota, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana, and Nebraska

This U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data release provides whole rock major, minor, and trace element geochemical data, mineral chemistry, and monazite and xenotime geochronology for Proterozoic rocks in the Needle Mountains of southwestern Colorado and for Proterozoic rocks sampled from drill cores from Colorado, North Dakota, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana, and Nebraska. Samples from the Needle Mountain
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

Denali Fault Zone Field, Microvein, and Microbeam Data, Kluane Ranges, Yukon, Canada

Detailed geologic mapping and sample collection was conducted in rare bedrock exposures of the Denali fault zone during the summer months of 2013, 2014, and 2015 by the U.S. Geological Survey. Data include measurements of structural geologic orientations and documentation of fault zone and host rock characteristics. Representative samples were selected for measurements of fault vein attributes and
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Characteristics of Dust Associated with the Development of Rapidly Progressive Pneumoconiosis and Progressive Massive Fibrosis

Research and surveillance reports have documented a significant increase in coal workers' pneumoconiosis, including the most severe forms of progressive massive fibrosis and rapidly progressive pneumoconiosis in U.S. coal miners, particularly those in Appalachian coalfields. Several possible explanations for these observations include excessive exposures to total respirable dust, increased exposur
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Microanalysis of samples collected from the Sulfur Springs Draw calcrete-type uranium deposit in the Southern High Plains, Texas, USA

This data release presents the results of microanalysis of 2 samples SSD15_01A (1 thin section and 1 composite chip sample), and SSD15_01B (1 thin section). The samples were collected in 2015 by U.S. Geological Survey geologists Bradley Van Gosen and Susan Hall from surface exposures of uranium mineralization in Sulfur Springs Draw, in Martin County, Texas (Van Gosen and Hall, 2017). The samples w
By
Central Energy Resources Science Center

Geochemistry of rocks and rock fabric data near the hanging wall contact to the Reef Package, Stillwater Complex, Montana, USA

The Reef Package is a sequence of coarse-grained cumulates that host the J-M Reef Pd-Pt deposit in the Stillwater Complex of Montana. The top of the Reef Package marks the top of economic-grade platinum-group element mineralization and is identified by a distinct change in rock fabric, from the coarse-grained rocks of the Reef Package to finer-grained cumulates in the hanging wall. This dataset ta
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
microscopic gold and lead particles
Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles
Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles
microscopic gold and lead particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic gold and lead particles surrounded by organic and phosphorus-rich material in a municipal biosolids sample (combined surface topography and atomic weight images).

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
microscopic gold and lead particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic gold and lead particles surrounded by organic and phosphorus-rich material in a municipal biosolids sample (combined surface topography and atomic weight images).

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
Image: Fuzzy Balls
Fuzzy Balls
Fuzzy Balls
Image: Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Backscattered electron image of radiating fibers of kaolinite growing in volcanic rock altered by fluids connected to hot springs near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Associated with the kaolinite are rounded masses of silica and iron oxides (bright areas) that formed from pyrite. The composition and textures help us evaluate the origin of ore deposits and

By
Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Image: Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Backscattered electron image of radiating fibers of kaolinite growing in volcanic rock altered by fluids connected to hot springs near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Associated with the kaolinite are rounded masses of silica and iron oxides (bright areas) that formed from pyrite. The composition and textures help us evaluate the origin of ore deposits and

By
Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Filter Total Items: 99

Brittle regime slip partitioned damage and deformation mechanisms along the eastern Denali fault zone in southwestern, Yukon

Rare bedrock exposures of the eastern Denali fault zone in southwestern Yukon allow for the measurement, sampling, and analyses of brittle regime fault slip data and deformation mechanisms to explore relations to far field, oblique plate motions. Host rock lithologies and associated slip surfaces show episodic damage zone‐related deformation and calcite ± hematite ± chlorite related hydrothermal f
Authors
Jonathan Caine, Omero F. Orlandini, Frederick W. Vollmer, Heather A. Lowers
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

New occurrences of the rare, REE minerals daqingshanite, törnebohmite, biraite, sahamalite, and ferriperbøeite from the Sheep Creek area, Montana, USA

Over 30 small, discontinuous, tabular carbonatite bodies are located in the Sheep Creek area, Ravalli County, southwest Montana. The age and origin of these REE-Nb-rich deposits are currently being investigated. The purpose of this paper is to document the occurrence of several rare minerals, including daqingshanite, törnebohmite, biraite, sahamalite, and ferriperbøeite, in two of the carbonatite
Authors
Christopher H. Gammons, Sarah Risedorf, Gary Wyss, Heather A. Lowers
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Microplastic and associated black particles from road-tire wear: Implications for radiative effects across the cryosphere and in the atmosphere

The environmental effects of airborne micro- and nano-size plastic particles are poorly understood. Microscopy and chemical analyses of atmospherically deposited particles on snow surfaces at high elevation (2,865–3,690 m) in the Upper Colorado River basin (UCRB; Colorado Rocky Mountains) revealed the presence of black substances intimately associated with microplastic fibers, particles interprete
Authors
Richard L. Reynolds, Heather A. Lowers, George N. Breit, Harland L. Goldstein, Elizabeth Kellisha Williams, Corey Lawrence, Raymond F. Kokaly, Jeff Derry
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

A multi-methodological approach: Combining textural observations and geochronology to study the J-M Reef Package and its Hanging Wall, Stillwater Complex, Montana

No abstract available.
Authors
Michael Jenkins, Sam R. Corson, Ennis Geraghty, S.L. Kamo, Heather A. Lowers, James E. Mungall
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Cathodoluminescence imaging and spectrometry of a jadeite microbeam reference crystal: Detection of Ce3+

Options for selecting a high Na concentration mineral for instrument calibration that are suitably stable under the electron beam are limited [1]. NaCl (approximately a mass fraction of 39 % Na) is not practical for use alongside other embedded and polished materials in a mounted block of standards. While albite (NaAlSi3O8; approximately a mass fraction of 8 % Na) represents a typical choice for s
Authors
Thomas Lameris, Heather A. Lowers, Scott A. Wight, Edward P. Vicenzi
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Correlating quantified cathodoluminescence spectra in jadeite with micro-scale color measurements in visible-near infrared reflectance spectrometry

Cultures throughout history have valued jadeite jade (hereinafter jade), a natural material assemblage composed predominately of the NaAl endmember pyroxene, jadeite (NaAlSi2O6) that is prized for its mechanical properties and enticing coloration [1, 2]. The geological setting for the formation of jadeite-rich rocks and associated complex geochemical phenomena is well documented in the literature
Authors
Edward P. Vicenzi, Thomas Lameris, Heather A. Lowers, Colin MacRae
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Compositional and structural mapping of Northwest Africa 15507 angrite

Angrite meteorites represent interesting sampling of planetary crustal environments. Quench-textured angrites with strong crystal zoning originated from the shallow surface region, with evidence of reducing conditions during solidification. Plutonic angrites have more coarse-grained igneous and metamorphic textures with comparatively less zoning and are interpreted as having equilibrated at greate
Authors
Heather A. Lowers, Paul C. Carpenter, Jay Michael Thompson, Anthony Irving
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

In situ lung dust analysis by automated Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy: A method for assessing inorganic particles in tissue from coal miners

Context.—Overexposure to respirable coal mine dust can cause severe lung disease including progressive massive fibrosis (PMF). Field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (FESEM-EDS) has been used for in situ lung dust particle analysis for evaluation of disease etiology. Automating such work can reduce time, costs, and user bias.Objective.—To develop and
Authors
Emily A. Sarver, C. Keles, Heather A. Lowers, L. Zell-Baran, Leonard H. T. Go, J. Hua, C. Cool, Cecile Rose, F.H. Green, K. S. Almberg, R. A. Cohen
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Trace silicon determination in biological samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS): Insight into volatility of silicon species in hydrofluoric acid digests for optimal sample preparation and introduction to ICP-MS

A method for the determination of trace levels of silicon from biological materials by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has been developed. The volatility of water-soluble silicon species, hexafluorosilicic acid (H2SiF6), and sodium metasilicate (Na2SiO3) was investigated by evaporating respective solutions (50 µg/mL silicon) in nitric acid (HNO3), nitric acid + hydrochloric a
Authors
Zikri Arslan, Heather A. Lowers
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Paleoproterozoic reworking of Archean crust and extreme back-arc metamorphism in the enigmatic southern Trans-Hudson orogen

The crustal evolution of the southernmost ∼2000–1800 Ma Trans-Hudson orogen (THO) is enigmatic due to burial by Phanerozoic sediments. We provide new insights through petrochronologic analysis of a paragneiss drill core sample. Detrital zircon age peaks at 2625, 2340, and 1880 Ma and Hf isotopes suggest Paleoproterozoic arc development proximal to Archean source(s). Phase equilibria modeling and t
Authors
Ian William Hillenbrand, Amy K. Gilmer, Michael L. Williams, Amanda (Kate) Souders, Michael J. Jercinovic, Heather A. Lowers, Jorge A. Vazquez
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Particle morphology and elemental analysis of lung tissue from post-9/11 military personnel with biopsy-proven lung disease

The relationship between exposure to inhaled inorganic particulate matter and risk for deployment-related lung disease in military personnel is unclear due in part to difficulties characterizing individual exposure to airborne hazards. We evaluated the association between self-reported deployment exposures and particulate matter (PM) contained in lung tissue from previously deployed personnel with
Authors
Heather A. Lowers, Lauren M. Zell-Baran, Zikri Arslan, Camille Moore, Cecile Rose
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Hydrothermal monazite and xenotime chemistry as genetic discriminators for intrusion-related and orogenic gold deposits: Implications for an orogenic origin of the Pogo gold deposit, Alaska

Attempts to geochemically distinguish between metamorphic-hydrothermal systems that form orogenic gold deposits and both reduced and oxidized magmatic-hydrothermal systems using isotopes or metal associations have proven ambiguous, particularly for orogenic gold and reduced intrusion-related gold systems. The absence of conclusive geochemical discriminators and the overlap in geologic characterist

Authors
Ryan Taylor, Garth E. Graham, Heather A. Lowers
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
How an Electron Microprobe Helps Find Minerals (and Makes Pretty Pictures!)

How an Electron Microprobe Helps Find Minerals (and Makes Pretty Pictures!)

Today’s high-end electronics increasingly rely on mineral commodities...and research into those mineral commodities is increasingly using high-end...

Read Article
Investigating Lung Disease in Military Veterans

Investigating Lung Disease in Military Veterans

Six years ago, veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan had trouble breathing normally. The list of potential causes that soldiers were exposed to...

Read Article

Science and Products

link
SEM image of carbonatite

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
link

Critical Elements in Carbonatites: From Exploration Targets to Element Distribution

Critical elements are essential to the modern economy and have potential supply chain disruptions, but compared to most base and precious metals, little work has been done in understanding ore-grade enrichments. Carbonatites are the primary source of the worlds light rare earth elements and niobium, and a potential source for heavy rare earths, scandium, tantalum, and thorium. Project objectives...
Learn More
link
Old JEOL Scanning Electron Microscope.

Denver Microbeam Laboratory: Mineral Resources Research Support

The USGS Denver Microbeam Laboratory provides chemical analysis and characterization of rocks, minerals, and environmental samples in support of a wide variety of USGS projects related to mineral resources, including research projects funded by the USGS Mineral Resources Program. The research applications for these projects range from mineral resource research and assessments, to geologic mapping...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
link

Denver Microbeam Laboratory: Mineral Resources Research Support

The USGS Denver Microbeam Laboratory provides chemical analysis and characterization of rocks, minerals, and environmental samples in support of a wide variety of USGS projects related to mineral resources, including research projects funded by the USGS Mineral Resources Program. The research applications for these projects range from mineral resource research and assessments, to geologic mapping...
Learn More
link
Lung Tissue

Department of Defense Lung Study

Between 2003 and the present, 2.2 million U.S. military personnel have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. These deployers have been variably exposed to desert dusts, smoke from burn pits, and urban particulate matter, and some have developed constrictive bronchiolitis. A study was undertaken to determine what, if any, markers were statistically different among biopsied lung tissue sections...
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
link

Department of Defense Lung Study

Between 2003 and the present, 2.2 million U.S. military personnel have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. These deployers have been variably exposed to desert dusts, smoke from burn pits, and urban particulate matter, and some have developed constrictive bronchiolitis. A study was undertaken to determine what, if any, markers were statistically different among biopsied lung tissue sections...
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 25

Physical and chemical data for dust deposited on Colorado Rocky Mountain snow cover during water year 2013 through water year 2016.

Atmospheric particulate matter deposited to snow cover diminishes snow-surface albedo and results in early onset and rapid snow melting, challenging management of downstream water resources. We present here physical and chemical data from snow samples from 14 sites during the melt seasons of water years 2013-16 across 60,000 km2 of the central Rocky Mountains within the Upper Colorado River basin.
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

Method development for determination of trace amounts of silicon in hydrofluoric acid digests of biological samples and lung biopsy tissues by ICP-MS

A method was described for determination of trace levels of silicon by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) from hydrofluoric (HF) digests of biological samples. The volatility of silicon in HF digests was examined with synthetic solutions as well as soil and mine waste samples. A digestion scheme was optimized to achieve complete dissolution, avoid loss of volatile silicon specie
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Stable isotope data for sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen in minerals and gases and electron microprobe data for minerals from Sulphur Bank mercury mine, Lake County, California

Stable isotope compositions (the ratios deuterium/hydrogen, oxygen-18/oxygen-16, and sulfur-34/sulfur-32) are reported for alunite, jarosite, kaolinite, silica, cinnabar, marcasite, and native sulfur from outcrops in and around the workings of the Sulphur Bank mercury mine, Lake County, California, and chemical compositions are reported, from electron microprobe analyses, for alunite and buddingto
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Data release of isotope geochemistry, mineral chemistry, and geochronology for a Proterozoic paragneiss sampled from drill core from North Dakota

This U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data release provides whole rock isotope geochemistry, zircon hafnium isotope geochemistry, feldspar mineral chemistry, and zircon, monazite, and xenotime geochronology for a paragneiss sampled from a drill core from North Dakota. The sample was collected from the 9-11R E-M Larson well in order to constrain the depositional age, provenance, metamorphic history, a
By
Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Geochemical Analysis of Bulk Dust and Human Respiratory Cells and Fluids in Research on Deployment-related Lung Injury

Multiple techniques including, x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, laser diffraction particle analysis, and inductively coupled plasma spectrometry, were used to characterize the morphology and composition of dust used for biological studies as well as lung tissue from rats, personnel deployed to Southwest Asia, and control samples. The data presented in this release are organized in
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Trace element chemistry of sulfides and quartz, in situ sulfur isotope values of sulfides, cathodoluminescence of quartz, fluid inclusion microthermometry and raman, and radiogenic isotope and whole rock geochemistry from the Stibnite-Yellow Pine district

This dataset is a collection of geochemical data on samples from the Stibnite-Yellow Pine district of Idaho. The datasets include: whole rock geochemistry; lead, strontium and neodymium isotope chemistry of sulfides and whole rock samples by isotope dilution-thermal-mass spectrometry (ID-TIMS); in situ sulfur isotope chemistry of sulfides by laser ablation-multi collector-inductively coupled-mass
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Microanalysis of samples collected from sandstone-hosted uranium and vanadium deposits in the Colorado Plateau: Utah, New Mexico and Colorado, USA

These data are microanalyses of 91 polished thin sections that were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) to identify minerals and observe their relationships at high magnification. Samples are from the Triassic Chinle and Jurassic Morrison Formations and adjacent units, which are the main hosts for sandstone-hosted uranium-vanadi
By
Central Energy Resources Science Center

Data release of geochemistry and geochronology for Proterozoic rocks in southwestern Colorado and rocks from drill core from Colorado, North Dakota, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana, and Nebraska

This U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data release provides whole rock major, minor, and trace element geochemical data, mineral chemistry, and monazite and xenotime geochronology for Proterozoic rocks in the Needle Mountains of southwestern Colorado and for Proterozoic rocks sampled from drill cores from Colorado, North Dakota, Nevada, Wyoming, Montana, and Nebraska. Samples from the Needle Mountain
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

Denali Fault Zone Field, Microvein, and Microbeam Data, Kluane Ranges, Yukon, Canada

Detailed geologic mapping and sample collection was conducted in rare bedrock exposures of the Denali fault zone during the summer months of 2013, 2014, and 2015 by the U.S. Geological Survey. Data include measurements of structural geologic orientations and documentation of fault zone and host rock characteristics. Representative samples were selected for measurements of fault vein attributes and
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Characteristics of Dust Associated with the Development of Rapidly Progressive Pneumoconiosis and Progressive Massive Fibrosis

Research and surveillance reports have documented a significant increase in coal workers' pneumoconiosis, including the most severe forms of progressive massive fibrosis and rapidly progressive pneumoconiosis in U.S. coal miners, particularly those in Appalachian coalfields. Several possible explanations for these observations include excessive exposures to total respirable dust, increased exposur
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Microanalysis of samples collected from the Sulfur Springs Draw calcrete-type uranium deposit in the Southern High Plains, Texas, USA

This data release presents the results of microanalysis of 2 samples SSD15_01A (1 thin section and 1 composite chip sample), and SSD15_01B (1 thin section). The samples were collected in 2015 by U.S. Geological Survey geologists Bradley Van Gosen and Susan Hall from surface exposures of uranium mineralization in Sulfur Springs Draw, in Martin County, Texas (Van Gosen and Hall, 2017). The samples w
By
Central Energy Resources Science Center

Geochemistry of rocks and rock fabric data near the hanging wall contact to the Reef Package, Stillwater Complex, Montana, USA

The Reef Package is a sequence of coarse-grained cumulates that host the J-M Reef Pd-Pt deposit in the Stillwater Complex of Montana. The top of the Reef Package marks the top of economic-grade platinum-group element mineralization and is identified by a distinct change in rock fabric, from the coarse-grained rocks of the Reef Package to finer-grained cumulates in the hanging wall. This dataset ta
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center
microscopic gold and lead particles
Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles
Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles
microscopic gold and lead particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic gold and lead particles surrounded by organic and phosphorus-rich material in a municipal biosolids sample (combined surface topography and atomic weight images).

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
microscopic gold and lead particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic Gold and Lead Particles

Microscopic gold and lead particles surrounded by organic and phosphorus-rich material in a municipal biosolids sample (combined surface topography and atomic weight images).

By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
Image: Fuzzy Balls
Fuzzy Balls
Fuzzy Balls
Image: Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Backscattered electron image of radiating fibers of kaolinite growing in volcanic rock altered by fluids connected to hot springs near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Associated with the kaolinite are rounded masses of silica and iron oxides (bright areas) that formed from pyrite. The composition and textures help us evaluate the origin of ore deposits and

By
Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Image: Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Fuzzy Balls

Backscattered electron image of radiating fibers of kaolinite growing in volcanic rock altered by fluids connected to hot springs near Lassen Volcanic National Park. Associated with the kaolinite are rounded masses of silica and iron oxides (bright areas) that formed from pyrite. The composition and textures help us evaluate the origin of ore deposits and

By
Volcano Hazards, Communications and Publishing
Filter Total Items: 99

Brittle regime slip partitioned damage and deformation mechanisms along the eastern Denali fault zone in southwestern, Yukon

Rare bedrock exposures of the eastern Denali fault zone in southwestern Yukon allow for the measurement, sampling, and analyses of brittle regime fault slip data and deformation mechanisms to explore relations to far field, oblique plate motions. Host rock lithologies and associated slip surfaces show episodic damage zone‐related deformation and calcite ± hematite ± chlorite related hydrothermal f
Authors
Jonathan Caine, Omero F. Orlandini, Frederick W. Vollmer, Heather A. Lowers
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

New occurrences of the rare, REE minerals daqingshanite, törnebohmite, biraite, sahamalite, and ferriperbøeite from the Sheep Creek area, Montana, USA

Over 30 small, discontinuous, tabular carbonatite bodies are located in the Sheep Creek area, Ravalli County, southwest Montana. The age and origin of these REE-Nb-rich deposits are currently being investigated. The purpose of this paper is to document the occurrence of several rare minerals, including daqingshanite, törnebohmite, biraite, sahamalite, and ferriperbøeite, in two of the carbonatite
Authors
Christopher H. Gammons, Sarah Risedorf, Gary Wyss, Heather A. Lowers
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Microplastic and associated black particles from road-tire wear: Implications for radiative effects across the cryosphere and in the atmosphere

The environmental effects of airborne micro- and nano-size plastic particles are poorly understood. Microscopy and chemical analyses of atmospherically deposited particles on snow surfaces at high elevation (2,865–3,690 m) in the Upper Colorado River basin (UCRB; Colorado Rocky Mountains) revealed the presence of black substances intimately associated with microplastic fibers, particles interprete
Authors
Richard L. Reynolds, Heather A. Lowers, George N. Breit, Harland L. Goldstein, Elizabeth Kellisha Williams, Corey Lawrence, Raymond F. Kokaly, Jeff Derry
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center

A multi-methodological approach: Combining textural observations and geochronology to study the J-M Reef Package and its Hanging Wall, Stillwater Complex, Montana

No abstract available.
Authors
Michael Jenkins, Sam R. Corson, Ennis Geraghty, S.L. Kamo, Heather A. Lowers, James E. Mungall
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center

Cathodoluminescence imaging and spectrometry of a jadeite microbeam reference crystal: Detection of Ce3+

Options for selecting a high Na concentration mineral for instrument calibration that are suitably stable under the electron beam are limited [1]. NaCl (approximately a mass fraction of 39 % Na) is not practical for use alongside other embedded and polished materials in a mounted block of standards. While albite (NaAlSi3O8; approximately a mass fraction of 8 % Na) represents a typical choice for s
Authors
Thomas Lameris, Heather A. Lowers, Scott A. Wight, Edward P. Vicenzi
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Correlating quantified cathodoluminescence spectra in jadeite with micro-scale color measurements in visible-near infrared reflectance spectrometry

Cultures throughout history have valued jadeite jade (hereinafter jade), a natural material assemblage composed predominately of the NaAl endmember pyroxene, jadeite (NaAlSi2O6) that is prized for its mechanical properties and enticing coloration [1, 2]. The geological setting for the formation of jadeite-rich rocks and associated complex geochemical phenomena is well documented in the literature
Authors
Edward P. Vicenzi, Thomas Lameris, Heather A. Lowers, Colin MacRae
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Compositional and structural mapping of Northwest Africa 15507 angrite

Angrite meteorites represent interesting sampling of planetary crustal environments. Quench-textured angrites with strong crystal zoning originated from the shallow surface region, with evidence of reducing conditions during solidification. Plutonic angrites have more coarse-grained igneous and metamorphic textures with comparatively less zoning and are interpreted as having equilibrated at greate
Authors
Heather A. Lowers, Paul C. Carpenter, Jay Michael Thompson, Anthony Irving
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

In situ lung dust analysis by automated Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy: A method for assessing inorganic particles in tissue from coal miners

Context.—Overexposure to respirable coal mine dust can cause severe lung disease including progressive massive fibrosis (PMF). Field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (FESEM-EDS) has been used for in situ lung dust particle analysis for evaluation of disease etiology. Automating such work can reduce time, costs, and user bias.Objective.—To develop and
Authors
Emily A. Sarver, C. Keles, Heather A. Lowers, L. Zell-Baran, Leonard H. T. Go, J. Hua, C. Cool, Cecile Rose, F.H. Green, K. S. Almberg, R. A. Cohen
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Trace silicon determination in biological samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS): Insight into volatility of silicon species in hydrofluoric acid digests for optimal sample preparation and introduction to ICP-MS

A method for the determination of trace levels of silicon from biological materials by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) has been developed. The volatility of water-soluble silicon species, hexafluorosilicic acid (H2SiF6), and sodium metasilicate (Na2SiO3) was investigated by evaporating respective solutions (50 µg/mL silicon) in nitric acid (HNO3), nitric acid + hydrochloric a
Authors
Zikri Arslan, Heather A. Lowers
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Paleoproterozoic reworking of Archean crust and extreme back-arc metamorphism in the enigmatic southern Trans-Hudson orogen

The crustal evolution of the southernmost ∼2000–1800 Ma Trans-Hudson orogen (THO) is enigmatic due to burial by Phanerozoic sediments. We provide new insights through petrochronologic analysis of a paragneiss drill core sample. Detrital zircon age peaks at 2625, 2340, and 1880 Ma and Hf isotopes suggest Paleoproterozoic arc development proximal to Archean source(s). Phase equilibria modeling and t
Authors
Ian William Hillenbrand, Amy K. Gilmer, Michael L. Williams, Amanda (Kate) Souders, Michael J. Jercinovic, Heather A. Lowers, Jorge A. Vazquez
By
Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Particle morphology and elemental analysis of lung tissue from post-9/11 military personnel with biopsy-proven lung disease

The relationship between exposure to inhaled inorganic particulate matter and risk for deployment-related lung disease in military personnel is unclear due in part to difficulties characterizing individual exposure to airborne hazards. We evaluated the association between self-reported deployment exposures and particulate matter (PM) contained in lung tissue from previously deployed personnel with
Authors
Heather A. Lowers, Lauren M. Zell-Baran, Zikri Arslan, Camille Moore, Cecile Rose
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Hydrothermal monazite and xenotime chemistry as genetic discriminators for intrusion-related and orogenic gold deposits: Implications for an orogenic origin of the Pogo gold deposit, Alaska

Attempts to geochemically distinguish between metamorphic-hydrothermal systems that form orogenic gold deposits and both reduced and oxidized magmatic-hydrothermal systems using isotopes or metal associations have proven ambiguous, particularly for orogenic gold and reduced intrusion-related gold systems. The absence of conclusive geochemical discriminators and the overlap in geologic characterist

Authors
Ryan Taylor, Garth E. Graham, Heather A. Lowers
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory
How an Electron Microprobe Helps Find Minerals (and Makes Pretty Pictures!)

How an Electron Microprobe Helps Find Minerals (and Makes Pretty Pictures!)

Today’s high-end electronics increasingly rely on mineral commodities...and research into those mineral commodities is increasingly using high-end...

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Investigating Lung Disease in Military Veterans

Investigating Lung Disease in Military Veterans

Six years ago, veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan had trouble breathing normally. The list of potential causes that soldiers were exposed to...

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