Seafloor Resources: Research aims

The physical and chemical parameters and the compositions of the solutions are relatively well known. However, we have little or no understanding of the mechanisms that drive or control the flow of these solutions. Such knowledge is crucial to our understanding of the formation of these sources of ores and energy, as well as for predictions of their presence. The junior research group will therefore investigate the three-dimensional and temporally dependent flow of solutions in the oceanic crust and its role in the formation of such marine raw materials:

• What is the pathway of the solution in the sea floor and why does it escape to the surface at certain locations?
• What is responsible for the formation of hot or gas-laden solutions at certain locations?
• Where are the deposits of these marine resources?
• How long does it take for the solution to escape to the surface?

A model for these solution flows will be developed in collaboration with the Institute of Computer Science and Applied Mathematics in order to improve our understanding of the formation of the marine resources of ores and gas hydrates. New methods of measurement and options for interpretation will also be tested. This basic research is ultimately essential for a future environmentally friendly approach to mining in the ocean. After all, these new living and mineral resources will be indispensable to future generations.