University of Manitoba Crystallography Laboratory

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The Crystallography Laboratory in the Department of Geological Sciences, University of Manitoba, contains much hardware, software and expertise not available at other Earth Science departments in North America. There are four principal instruments, all used to characterize crystalline materials, particularly minerals, at the atomic scale. Crystals are exposed to X-rays, and the resulting scattered radiation gives detailed information of the types and arrangements of atoms in the crystal. There is particular focus on (1) satisfying the demand for data on many (more than 25) crystals per project, and (2) dealing with difficult (very small, disordered, highly absorbing, deliquescent or dehydrating) crystals. The laboratory is the centre for such work in North America, and attracts students from all over the world. Many European and Asian scientists visit the lab for extended periods to learn the latest scientific techniques for understanding crystals, particularly minerals. A broad spectrum of work is done at this facility. Some scientists are working toward a fundamental understanding of crystals, seeking the general principles by which atoms assemble to form solid materials. The resulting information will provide a much deeper understanding of the chemical details of minerals, and gives great insight into the mechanisms by which such minerals form. In some cases, the temperature and pressure of mineral formation can be calculated, providing us with a quantitative picture of Earth processes. Other scientists are working on environmental issues such as regional climate change and acid mine drainage. Sediments deposited in lakes of the Canadian prairies contain information concerning the past climactic variation and the behaviour of continental lakes. Mine wastes react with surface waters to produce new minerals and very acid water which impacts negatively on the local environment. Detailed knowledge of the mineralogy and geochemistry of these environments, derived from extensive work at this facility, allows better design of remedial action.