Dr. Rich Kyle

Dr. Kyle's diverse research interests center on mineral
resource formation as an integral aspect of the development of the host geologic environment. Rich's major interests are in "strata-controlled" metal and industrial mineral deposits ranging from low-temperature groundwater and sedimentary basin systems to volcanic and plutonic environments. He has long recognized the importance of field experience to complement the traditional classroom education and offers students the opportunity to participate in international field work in mineral resources geology.

Studies of Zn-Pb-Ag sulfide deposits in salt dome cap rocks and in deep carbonate formations in the Gulf Coast evaluate the relation of ore deposition to petroleum and bacterial processes and to modern formation waters. These studies of young systems provide insights into the origin of major sediment - hosted base metal deposits in older basins.

The intrusion - and skarn - hosted giant Cu-Au ore deposits of the Ertsberg district in the Central Range of New Guinea (Papua, Indonesia) have provided topics for long-term studies involving the interaction of pluton-focused hydrothermal systems with Tertiary carbonate wall rocks. Current research projects include applications of high resolution X-ray computed tomography to gold ore genesis and processing, as well as studies of new deep ore zones. Quantitative applications of computed tomography are also being developed for fluid inclusions.

Studies of the Cenozoic tectonic and magmatic evolution of northern Mexico and contiguous Trans-Pecos Texas provide information on the origin of diverse mineral resources ranging from porphyry Cu-Mo deposits, carbonate-replacement polymetallic deposits, and non-sulfide Zn deposits. Industrial mineral projects include clay deposits in the Gulf Coast and Great Basin, sulfur in the Delaware Basin, west Texas fluorspar and talc, and central Texas dimension stone.