Raman spectral characterization of dispersed carbonaceous matter in decorative crystalline limestones.

Crystalline limestones (marbles) is a metamorphic rock that is widely used in the construction of buildings and in the manufacturing of statues. Along with dominant carbonates, marbles often contains carbonaceous matter resulting in a more or less grey colour. The Raman spectra of metamorphosed carbonaceous material (CM) were obtained in so-called graphitic marbles from several sites in the Bohemian Massif (Czech Republic).

The influence of temperature and hydration on the sorption properties of bentonite.

The effects of exposure to synthetic groundwater at elevated temperature gradients on the sorption properties of bentonite were investigated using the Mock-Up-Cz experiment. This experiment simulated the vertical placement of a container of radioactive waste according to the Swedish KBS-3 system for a period of more than 3 years. The mineralogical composition, as well as its chemical and physico-chemical properties, including the uptake of (99)TcO(4)(-) and (134)Cs(+), was used to evaluate the chemical changes caused by the long-term exposure of bentonite buffer to thermal and hydration gradients.

Processes affecting oxygen isotope ratios of atmospheric and ecosystem sulfate in two contrasting forest catchments in Central Europe.

Sulfate aerosols are harmful as respirable particles. They also play a role as cloud condensation nuclei and have radiative effects on global climate. A combination of delta18O-SO4 data with catchment sulfur mass balances was used to constrain processes affecting S cycling in the atmosphere and spruce forests of the Czech Republic.