Objective: Hydrothermal vent systems host seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) deposits that are typically rich in copper, zinc, gold, and silver. The primary scientific objective of a Working Group on Seafloor Mineralization would be to examine SMS deposit distribution, maturation and evolution and to investigate the processes (biological, chemical, geological) that are responsible for their formation and preservation. A sound scientific base of knowledge would both advance science but also inform the commercial and political world of the importance of these multi-faceted resources and encourage responsible development.
Chair - Maurice Tivey (WHOI, USA)
Group Members - Rachel Mills (UK), Georgy Cherkashov (Russia), Xuefa Shi (China)
Please note: WG membership is still in the process of formation.
(Working Group formed in 2008)
