Experimental Investigation of High P-T Synthesis and Survivability of Organic Acids in Hydrothermal Environments

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The goals of this research are to study the de novo synthesis and metastability of organic acids that are potential energy sources for microorganisms inhabiting hydrothermal vent environments. The work will test the hypothesis that short-chain carboxylic acids can form matastaly by mineral catalysis under hydrothermal conditions, and that they can persist under these conditions to serve as potential energy sources for thermophilic and hyperthermophilic prokaryotes. Computer modelling will be used to predict thermodynamic conditions that favor the metastable formation of organic acids when hydrothermal fluid and seawater mix. The modelled fluid composition, temperature ranges, and pressure will then be simulated in a flow-through catalytic reactor vessel to empirically test thermodynamic predictions and to determine kinetic mechanisms and reaction rates.