This National Science Foundation project grant of $220,031 supports research at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and Penn State University from January 2023 through December 2024. The grant is funded through the NSF's Integrative Activities program (CFDA 47.083), which enhances STEM competitiveness through capacity building and broadening participation in research.
Specifically, the grant will fund the development of a novel fault sliding test system to experimentally investigate the evolution of mineral properties in fault gouges under shearing, thermal treatment, and fluid intrusion. Combining neutron diffraction and nanoindentation techniques, the PI and graduate student will conduct mineral strain mapping and analyze properties of minerals in gouges to reveal triggering mechanisms of enhanced geothermal system-induced seismicity. Outcomes aim to provide insights for evaluating and mitigating geo-hazards related to EGS development. Research resources acquired will also support new course materials to provide training for underrepresented groups in Alaska.
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