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Dr John Webb: Research Interests

Silcrete genesis

Silcrete is a strongly cemented near-surface siliceous layer that prominently caps mesas throughout central Australia , and is also widespread in eastern Australia , usually associated with basalts. It is not understood how and when the silcrete formed, but the timing and mode of formation in the two regions are apparently different. My research indicates that an abundant silica source, perhaps linked to climatic controls, may be crucial, and a co-operative project with Dr David Nash, University of Brighton, is currently investigating this further.

Content Approved by: Head of Environmental Geoscience
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Last Updated: 27 January, 2009