Raphael Pietzsch

My research has been driven by my deep interest in understanding fundamental principles governing the precipitation and dissolution of minerals at Earth surface conditions (low T and P), as controlled by thermodynamics and kinetics. To this end, I have been doing laboratory experimental work, analytical investigations of minerals, fluids and the rock record. These approaches can provide an informative framework about ancient conditions on Earth and other planetary bodies, informing us about plausible prebiotic chemical conditions where life may have emerged, and fundamentally support us with essential knowledge to tackle our societies’ continuing demand for natural resources and energy in a constantly changing world.