OVERVIEW

The course aims to provide a solid theoretical and practical foundation for the training of professionals in the field of Geological Sciences, with skills applicable both in research and in applied contexts. It offers an in-depth exploration of basic and advanced techniques for the mineralogical and petrographic analysis of rocks, sediments, and artificial materials, as well as for the study of the fluid component of the Earth system. These competencies enable students to adopt a rigorous methodological approach throughout the various phases of geological work: sampling, sample analysis, and the production and processing of analytical data.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Aim is providing the students with the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills on the main analytical techniques enabling characterization of geomaterials, quantification and discussion of analytical results. The analytical techniques are discussed considering potentialities and limits of applications; the main legislative norms constraining the professional activities are also provided. This represents the necessary background for research and for professional work. Main topics: 1) Sampling strategies for geological studies of rocks, mineralized bodies, incoherent sediments, soils, surface and ground waters; 2) Analytical methods for rocks, minerals and waters characterization; 3) Analytical strategies for environmental, applied and basic research works; 4) Collection, treatment and elaboration of analytical data; 5) Practical case studies from field, to laboratory, to data acquisition and elaboration are performed by every student.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Regular attendance and active participation in the planned learning activities (lectures, laboratory work, and field activities) will enable students to acquire a solid understanding of investigation methods applied to geomaterials—essential for conducting professional studies and scientific research in various fields of Earth Sciences.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• understand and describe the main mineralogical, petrographic, and geochemical analytical techniques;
• select the most appropriate investigation methods to address specific problems;
• interpret analytical results and present them in both qualitative and quantitative terms;
• apply the theoretical and practical knowledge acquired to the analysis of rock, sediment, and surface and groundwater samples;
• critically evaluate data collected during fieldwork, sampling, and laboratory analysis to develop scientific or professional studies;
• write technical and scientific reports clearly, coherently, and rigorously.

PREREQUISITES

To successfully engage with the course content, students are expected to have a basic knowledge of mineralogy, petrography, and fluid geochemistry. These foundational skills are essential for understanding and effectively applying the investigation methods covered throughout the course.

TEACHING METHODS

The course is structured into lectures and theoretical-practical exercises conducted both in the laboratory and in the field. Attendance is strongly recommended, as the course includes assessment tests, applied activities, and practical sessions aimed at consolidating the knowledge acquired.

Lectures are held in the classroom with the support of multimedia presentations and provide the theoretical foundation necessary to engage effectively in the practical activities.

The practical exercises are designed to apply the concepts covered in the lectures and include:

• Field exercises, focused on sampling strategy design, sample collection, and in situ measurements using portable instruments;
• Small-group laboratory exercises, for sample preparation using materials collected during fieldwork;
• Individual exercises using a polarizing optical microscope, for the qualitative and quantitative determination of mineralogical composition and petrographic features;
• Group exercises using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM-EDS), for chemical composition analysis of minerals and microstructural characterization of samples;
• Group exercises using µ-Raman spectroscopy;
• Classroom exercises, dedicated to the processing, interpretation, and presentation of collected analytical data.

Laboratory activities take place in rooms equipped with microscopes and specialized lighting, as well as in the laboratories of DISTAV.

Students with certified Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), disabilities, or other educational needs are encouraged to contact both the teacher and the Department’s disability liaison officer, Prof. Sara Ferrando (sara.ferrando@unige.it), at the beginning of the course. This will allow for the arrangement of appropriate teaching methods that, while respecting the learning objectives of the course, take into account individual learning needs.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course program includes the presentation and discussion of the following topics:

• Sampling strategies for rocks, unconsolidated sediments, mineralized volumes, as well as for surface and groundwater;
• Basic and advanced analytical techniques for the mineralogical, petrographic, and geochemical characterization of geomaterials;
• Analytical strategies applied to various areas of geological practice and scientific research;
• Methodologies and analytical criteria for the regulatory certification of natural materials;
• Collection, processing, interpretation, and presentation of analytical data;
• Discussion of case studies and practical examples.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

All slides and other teaching materials used during lessons will be available on AulaWeb at the end of each cycle of lessons / laboratory exercises.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

Classes will start from February 15th 2021 and will end by June 10th 2020

Please, consult detailed timetable at the following link: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/

Class schedule

The timetable for this course is available here: EasyAcademy

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The exam consists of two parts: a written test and an oral test.

• Written Test
The written test involves the preparation of a technical report on a topic chosen by the student from those covered during laboratory and fieldwork sessions. The report must include:

1. Geological and geographical framework of the context;
2. State of the art with appropriate bibliographic references;
3. Investigation methodologies used;
4. Description, processing, and presentation of analytical data;
5. Concluding remarks consistent with a scientific or professional report.

The written test is considered passed with a score of 18/30 or higher.

• Oral Test
The oral test consists of a presentation on a topic chosen by the student and a discussion of additional topics covered during the course, through questions posed by the instructor.

The final grade will be calculated as the arithmetic mean of the scores obtained in the written and oral tests.

The oral test may be taken during the same exam session as the written test or in one of the subsequent sessions, according to the official calendar published on the UniGe website. There are three exam sessions in the winter period (January–February) and three in the summer period (June, July, September).

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Detailed instructions on how to prepare for the exam and the required level of depth for each topic will be provided during the lectures.

The written test is designed to assess the actual acquisition of knowledge related to investigation methods and the application of diagnostic techniques for the study of geomaterials. Students must demonstrate the ability to integrate the theoretical knowledge acquired during lectures with the practical skills developed in laboratory and fieldwork activities, applying them to specific case studies.

The oral test will focus on the topics covered during the lectures and aims to evaluate not only the level of knowledge achieved but also the student’s ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world contexts. Clarity of presentation and correct use of scientific terminology will also be assessed.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Regular and active participation in lectures and associated laboratory sessions is strongly recommended to ensure effective learning and skill development.

Students are required to wear appropriate clothing for field excursions and laboratory activities, and to use the personal protective equipment (PPE) provided for these sessions. All other technical and analytical instruments necessary for the activities will be supplied by the instructor.

For any additional information not included in the teaching schedule, please contact the professor.