Northampton Electronic Collection of Theses and Research

High resolution 3D confocal microscope imaging of volcanic ash particles

Wertheim, D., Gillmore, G., Gill, I. and Petford, N. (2017) High resolution 3D confocal microscope imaging of volcanic ash particles. Science of The Total Environment. 590-591 0048-9697.

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9818:20590
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Abstract:
We present initial results from a novel high resolution confocal microscopy study of the 3D surface structure of volcanic ash particles from two recent explosive basaltic eruptions, Eyjafjallajökull (2010) and Grimsvötn (2011), in Iceland. The majority of particles imaged are less than 100 μm in size and include PM10s, known to be harmful to humans if inhaled. Previous studies have mainly used 2D microscopy to examine volcanic particles. The aim of this study was to test the potential of 3D laser scanning confocal microscopy as a reliable analysis tool for these materials and if so to what degree high resolution surface and volume data could be obtained that would further aid in their classification. First results obtained using an Olympus LEXT scanning confocal microscope with a × 50 and × 100 objective lens are highly encouraging. They reveal a range of discrete particle types characterised by sharp or concave edges consistent with explosive formation and sudden rupture of magma. Initial surface area/volume ratios are given that may prove useful in subsequent modelling of damage to aircraft engines and human tissue where inhalation has occurred.
Uncontrolled Keywords:
Volcanic ash particles, microscopy, confocal
Creators:
Wertheim, D., Gillmore, G., Gill, I. and Petford, N.
Faculties, Divisions and Institutes:
Faculties > Faculty of Arts, Science & Technology > Environmental Science
Date:
15 July 2017
Date Type:
Publication
Journal or Publication Title:
Science of The Total Environment
Volume:
590-591
Language:
English
DOI:
10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.02.230
ISSN:
0048-9697
Status:
Published / Disseminated
Refereed:
Yes
Related URLs:
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