COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH: Measuring Volcanic Ash Properties That Promote the Generation of Lightning in Eruptive Columns and Plumes

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Volcanic lightning is a common but understudied phenomenon that is poorly parameterized. This project focuses on learning more about the properties of ash particles relating to their role in the generation of electrical fields in volcanic plumes and in volcanic lightning. In addition to being a charge carrier, volcanic ash may also influence the production of lightning due to its potential role in ice nucleation and as polarized, conducting particles. A range of material laboratory testing and characterization techniques will be used on samples obtained from several Alaskan volcanoes to determine if ash samples of different mineral and structurally bound water content will affect the functionality of conducting/insulating ash materials, and their ice nucleation affinity. Generation of volcanic (silicic glass) spherules as an indicator of the production of specific ash grain textures during volcanic lightning episodes will also be sought for. The broader impacts of the proposed research include the training of undergraduate students, creation of teaching materials, and the support of an early career researcher. Improved understanding of volcanic hazards for the aviation, communication, and power generation industries are additional potential societal impacts