Mineral-water interactions within active rock-glaciers and their relevance for climate change

Nature as a Laboratory!
The Institute of Applied Geosciences of Graz University of Technology in collaboration with the Institute of Earth Sciences at the University of Graz and Karl Krainer from the University of Innsbruck sampled rock glacier springs in Tyrol. The rock glacier spring dynamics as well as the precipitation of minerals from these often highly mineralized waters is investigated. We want to understand fundamental processes of neo-formation of clay minerals and its amorphous precursors and the liberation of heavy metals and other dissolved components.
This close collaboration highlights the interdisciplinary connections within geosciences and emphasizes the benefits of cooperation between Graz University of Technology and the University of Graz within the framework of NAWI Graz.
The images show sampling and measurements in alpine regions, as well as lively discussions about geological and geomorphological phenomena and processes in the Alps.