Deep Earth

One of the main objective of the group is to understand the dynamics and evolution of the deep interior of Earth and terrestrial planets. We use for this a combination of theoretical and numerical modelling, fluid dynamics experiments, and high pressure mineral physics experiments.

Topics currently under investigation include:
– the generation of magnetic field in planetary cores through dynamo effect
– accretion and core/mantle differentiation of terrestrial planets
– physical properties of the mantle and core of terrestrial planets (including exoplanets)
– convection in a crystallizing mantle and magma oceans
– Earth’s inner core crystallisation and dynamics
– ...

Mineral Physics

Terrestrial planets are constituted of different layers, mainly a silicate mantle surrounding a metallic core. With increasing depth, pressure and temperature increase, modifying the physical properties of the materials, such as density, crystallographic structure, etc … These changes strongly affect the dynamic of the whole planet. To constrain the actual state of a planet, as well as its evolution from its early stage, it is mandatory to perform measurements on materials under planetary interiors conditions. Mineral Physics approach aim at using different experimental tools, such as Diamond Anvil Cell, Multi-Anvil press or Laser-driven Shock Compression, to unravel density, structure, phase diagram or transport properties of geomaterials under extreme conditions. The explored conditions will span from few GPa, for the Moon’s interior, to several hundreds of GPa for large exoplanets.

Accretion and core/mantle differentiation of terrestrial planets