Dr. Bryan Maciag

My primary research interest is in understanding the fundamental chemical behavior of rare earth elements (REE) in geological systems. The first aspect of my research is investigating the chemical form (speciation) of Nd and Yb in supercritical aqueous fluids. For this research, I will use hydrothermal diamond anvil cell experiments to simulate geological conditions and measure the speciation in-situ using both Raman spectroscopy and synchrotron-based X-ray absorption spectroscopy. The second aspect of my research will investigate the solubility of Yb-phosphates in supercritical aqueous solutions using batch-type dissolution experiments. Fundamental thermodynamic data will be derived from these experiments and incorporated into the MINES database. Together these two research aspects will further develop our understanding of REE behavior in geological systems, and illuminate the processes of REE ore deposit formation.