I am interested in the dynamics of metamorphic processes. I try to determine the rates of fluid and heat flow through metamorphic terrains and the relations between the flow and the tectonic development. Most of my work has been to try to decipher metamorphic dynamics from rocks, to obtain the clues from the textures and compositions of the minerals in the rocks, and to apply thermodynamic and kinetic concepts to interpret the clues. Because many rates are poorly known, I have begun to measure them in the laboratory in collaboration with colleagues at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. A broad view of metamorphism shows the relation between metamorphism and tectonism.
Metamorphic rocks are records of heat flow through the orogen.
Please visit this site to see what is currently happening in metamorphic petrology at the University of Tennessee.