From atomic structure to geological samples to outcrops and large-scale magma chambers

26–29 April 2027 * Faculty of Geology and Geophysics * University of Bucharest

This International School on Silicate Melts provides a research-oriented introduction to the simulation and analysis of magmas, lavas, melts and fluids. It is intended for students and researchers in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, mineral physics and related fields who want to connect the macroscopic behaviour of geological materials with the processes taking place at the atomic scale.

Scientific scope

The lectures examine silicate magmas and lavas across a wide range of spatial scales, from atomic structure and chemical bonding to transport processes, mineralizing systems and continental-scale geological phenomena. The school introduces ab initio calculations and molecular dynamics, then shows how atomistic analysis can be used to determine structural, thermodynamic and transport properties. These results are related to broader geological questions concerning magma behaviour, volcanic processes, mineral resources and the movement of matter through planetary materials.

Practical work

The hands-on tutorials will focus on the atomistic description of melts and fluids. Participants will use VMD to visualize molecular-dynamics trajectories and to examine how atomic systems change with time. Practical exercises with the UMD/MAGMATOMIX software will then show how to extract and interpret structural information, thermodynamic quantities and transport properties, including diffusion and viscosity.

Tentative program and lecturers

1.1 Silicate magmas and lavas. Macroscopic view (Mihai Ducea, University of Bucharest)

2.2 Silicate magmas and lavas. Atomistic view (Razvan Caracas, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris)

 Hands-on: VMD: visualization of simulations
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2.1 Ab initio simulations (Razvan Caracas, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris)

2.2 Molecular dynamics of melts and fluids (Razvan Caracas, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris)

2.3. Critical deposits associated with silicate melts (Anna Vymazalova, Czech Geological Survey)

 Hands-on: UMD: structural properties
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3.1 Thermodynamics of magmas and lavas (Peter Luffi, National Geological Museum of Romania)

3.2 Minerals and resources (Barbara Soare, University of Bucharest)

 Hands-on: UMD: further hands-on, including thermodynamics
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4.1 Mineralizing melts and fluids (Vlad Ene, University of Bucharest)

4.2 Reading magma evolution through mineral cargo and melt inclusions (Anca Barla, University of Arizona)

Hands-on: UMD: trajectories, transport: diffusion and viscosity

More practical information coming soon

Hosted by and with the help of local student organizations: Bucharest SGA chapter SEG Bucharest Chapter