Emplacement mechanisms, timing and deformation of magmatic intrusions in the Hekkelstrand Marble

Project description
Igneous intrusions, such as dykes, sills and laccoliths, are key components of volcanic plumbing systems and are common in many sedimentary basins worldwide. Sills are typically layer-parallel, tabular bodies of magma that can show a range of different architectures, geometries and features that are influenced by conditions during emplacement. Therefore, a systematic characterization of sills hosted in sedimentary sequences can help expand and improve our understanding of style and conditions for magma transport within sedimentary basins and how that signature is preserved. In the Ofotfjorden area, the Hekkelstrand Marble outcrops in proximity of the hinge of a large
syncline related to the compressional phase during the Caledonian orogenesis. Numerous magmatic intrusions are observed within the marble in the active mine close to Ballangen, showcasing a vast range of structures spanning from semi-pristine emplacement structures to deformed, folded and faulted layers. These outcrops offer a unique possibility to investigate the relative timing, emplacement mechanisms as well as subsequent deformation during metamorphism and brittle deformation of magmatic intrusions in carbonate rocks.

This project aims to characterize the origin and geometrical relationship between magmatic intrusions and the Hekkelstrand Marble by combining (i) field mapping combined with (ii) mineralogy and geochemistry of the intrusions, and (iii) microstructural characterization (optical and scanning electron microscopy, cathodoluminescence) of intrusions as well as contact with the host rock.

Based on the student's interest and work, there will be the possibility to expand the range and nature of analyses in the study area.

During this Master's project the student will learn how to tackle a research question with a multidisciplinary approach and learn a series of versatile field- and laboratory-based techniques.

The project expenses will be sponsored by Franzefoss Minerals.

Proposed course plan during the master's degree (60 ECTS)
GEOV252 - Field Course in Geological Mapping (10 ECTS)
GEOV342 - The Geochemical Toolbox (10 ECTS)
GEOV352 - Field course in reservoir geology (5 ECTS)
GEOV302 - Data analysis in earth science (10 ECTS)
GEOV300 - Scientific writing and communication in Earth Science (5 ECTS)
GEOV251 - Advanced Structural Geology (10 ECTS)
GEOV341 - Thermochronology and Tectonics (5 ECTS)
GEOV345 - Regional geologic excursion to Western Norway (5 ECTS)

Field-, lab- and analysis work
Field work and geological mapping in the Hekkelstrand mine near Ballangen will form the core of the thesis’ work and will be complemented by mineralogical and microstructural characterization of the magmatic intrusions.

Prerequisites
The student will ideally have an interest in petrology, geochemistry, field work and microscopy. Knowledge of Norwegian geology will be an advantage.