SPECTRAL EVOLUTION Participates in Petrobras University Quaternary Carbonate Course and Field Trips


Spectroradiometer capabilities demonstrated in scanning of stromatolites, microbial laminates, and evaporites



Lawrence, MA – Led by Dr. Jose Carlos Sicoli Seoane of the Geology Department at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, the second Petrobras University field course took place from November 10-14, 2014. With field trips to Buzios, Brejo do Espinho and Lagoa Vermelha sites, the course was focused on stromatolites, microbial laminates and evaporites as modern analogues to pre-salt oil host rock. The field course also included measuring for dolomite and signs of hydrocarbon seepage.



SPECTRAL EVOLUTION’s founder, Dennis Witz, was invited to bring a PSR-3500 full range 350-2500nm field spectroradiometer equipped with EZ-ID sample identification software and the Custom Library Builder module. The PSR-3500 was used to take a large number of scans in the field at the various locations to measure and identify aragonite, calcite, magnesium calcite, and dolomite.



Stromatolites are considered to be the oldest macroscopic evidence of early life – in essence living fossils. They are built by the metabolic activity of microbes. In the areas of study for this field course, stromatolites are composed of dolomite. For many years all dolomite was considered to be “ancient.” However, at sites like the Vermelha Lagoon, it was discovered that the activity of microbes here induced dolomite precipitation.



The PSR-3500 was instrumental in scanning all the course areas and in one beach setting showed dolomite mixed with calcite. In addition, the PSR-3500 measured photosynthetic activity in microbial mats.



For more information on the PSR Series of spectroradiometers, including the new PSR+, visit: http://www.spectralevolution.com/portable_spectroradiometer.html



About SPECTRAL EVOLUTION

Established in 2004, SPECTRAL EVOLUTION is a leading manufacturer of laboratory and handheld portable spectrometers, spectroradiometers and spectrophotometers. SPECTRAL EVOLUTION spectrometers are used worldwide for many mission-critical lab and field applications in mining, remote sensing, vegetative studies, ground truthing, environmental and climate studies, developing satellite calibrations, and more, due to their reliable, robust, rugged design and user-friendly one-touch features.



SPECTRAL EVOLUTION maintains a facility in Lawrence, Massachusetts which houses design, prototyping, manufacturing and service facilities for the instruments that it markets and sells worldwide, either through direct sales, OEM sales or through distributor agents.



Press contact

Mo Kashdan

Marketing Sales

978-687-1833

Maurice.kashdan@spectralevolution.com



SPECTRAL EVOLUTION

1 Canal Street, Unit B1

Lawrence, MA 01840 USA

www.spectralevolution.com

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