VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.
Environmental mineralogy
Umweltmineralogie
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:23:30
Abstract
The lecture Environmental Mineralogy provides an outline of chemical and physical properties of iron oxides, clays, and carbonates. Analytical methods (XRD, spectroscopy and magnetics) are presented in order to identify and characterize minerals in natural samples as a tool for the reconstruction of weathering in soils, of diagenesis in sediment, and of phase transitions in hydrothermal systems.
Objective
Knowledge of the most important minerals (Fe-oxides, carbonates, and sheet silicates) in environmental systems Knowing about the technical and analytical tools for the identification and characterization of mineral phases. Development of strategies for the analytical handling of multimineral sytems. The application of mineralogical informations to solve specific environmental problems.
Content
Short introduction to mineral sciences Inorganic minerals and biominerals Analytical methods for the identification and characterization of minerals Weathering & diagenesis and the formation of minerals Minerals as environmental indicators (tropical soils and lacustrine sediments as case studies) The use of minerals in the environmental management (e.g. controlled landfills) Weathering and conservation of building materials
Resources
Lecture Notes
Hand-outs are delivered
Literature
- Introduction to mineral sciences, A. Putnis; Cambridge University Press, 1992. - On Biomineralization, Lowenstam & Weiner, Oxford University Press, 1989. - Umweltchemie, V. Koss, Springer, 1997.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Umweltmineralogie |
|
1 h weekly |