KLARA project "Kinetics of lava flows crystallization", funded by the Ministry of University and Research Italian Science Fund 2022-2023 (FIS 2 call) - CUP E53C24003730001

Position: Technologist Institute: Uni. Catania
Posted on: 03/07/2026 Deadline: 27/07/2026

Scientific-Disciplinary Group

04/GEOS-01 - Mineralogy, Petrology, Geochemistry, Volcanology, Georesources And Applications

Description

The project aims to investigate viscosity variations in lava flows induced by crystallization through fieldwork, petrological analyses, laboratory experiments, and numerical modeling. Lava samples ranging from mafic to silicic compositions will be characterized using geochemical and petrographic techniques. The timing and sequence of crystallization will be studied using high-temperature X-ray microtomography under different cooling conditions. Based on the results, viscosity will be modeled using established methods from the literature. The findings will enable reconstruction of the rheological evolution of lavas during flow, the crystallization sequence by linking cooling rates to composition and crystalline textures, and the timing of bubble nucleation and growth. The results of the study will help improve predictive models of lava flow pathways during effusive eruptions, with a strong impact on hazard assessment.

Working time

Full-time

Number of positions

1