Does biology enhance low-temperature carbonate precipitation for climate mitigation?

Carbonate minerals are a major natural sink for carbon dioxide from volcanic and anthropogenic sources, closing Earth’s carbon cycle. Recent low-temperature (0 to 35°C) studies suggest microbial processes influence carbonate mineral growth, but the role of biology remains unclear: Are the microbes calling the shots or just along for the ride? This project will analyze a unique suite of Argentinian samples via geochemical and mineralogical approaches to determine biotic and abiotic contributions to carbonate precipitation processes. Understanding these pathways may reveal strategies for enhanced carbon mineralization, offering potential climate mitigation solutions. Results will advance fundamental knowledge of microbe-mineral interactions and their application in carbon sequestration.

Faculty Supervisor:

Benjamin Tutolo

Student:

Partner:

Universidad Nacional de Córdoba

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Environmental Science and Technology; Sustainability and the Environment; Biotechnology

University:

University of Calgary

Program:

Globalink Research Award

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