Using Long wave Infrared Spectroscopy to Determine Changes in the Mafic Mineralogy of Drill Core Samples from the Humu'ula Groundwater Research Project

摘要

Spectroscopy can be used effectively in the first stages of mineral identification and exploration. Long wave infrared (LWIR) wavelengths are particularly useful in identifying diagnostic features in common rock forming minerals. These techniques will be utilized to determine mafic minerology of eleven rock slabs from a drill core project in the Humu'ula Saddle region. Changes in the minerology of core samples through spectral shifts and changes in the long wave infrared will expand on our knowledge of geologic processes in the area as well as provide analogues to Mars. With widespread occurrences of mafic basaltic flows on the surface of Mars, critical examination of the minerology of Hawaiian drill core can help to model mafic and groundwater interactions on that planet. The results of this study will supplement previous studies of the drill core and offer insight into how long-wave infrared spectroscopy can complement data from shorter wavelengths.