Dominik Sorger

In my current research I use various kinds of petrological calculations and thermodynamic modeling combined with geochronology of various minerals such as monazite ((Th–)U–Pb), zircon, rutile, titanite (U–Pb) or garnet (Sm–Nd). For acquisition of the relevant data I use several state-of-the-art analytical techniques such electron microprobe, scanning electron microscopy (including EDS, EBSD & CL), (LA)–(MC)–ICP–MS, Raman spectroscopy, fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence analysis. 

A particular focus of my research lies on mineral and melt inclusions and the chemical zoning of garnet porphyroblasts as well as on the formation of mineral reaction textures such as coronae or symplectites. Both can indicate a change in the metamorphic conditions and possibly also a (local) change in the chemical system of the rock. In last years I have also begun to focus on the growth systematics and properties of accessory minerals, in particular REE-, U- and Th- bearing minerals such as monazite, allanite or zircon. 

All these data can be used to build a comprehensive picture of the P-T-X-T evolution of metamorphic rocks and to draw conclusions on the processes of mineral growth and element mobility/transport during metamorphism and ultimately on the evolution of orogens or various processes in the lithosphere. 

For further details on my ongoing research, click here.

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