OOI Instrument Analytical Results
The Core Instrument Analytical Results data repository contains processed analytical data and metadata for a subset of Cabled Array instruments that collect fluid or particulate samples that are brought back to shore and analyzed in a laboratory. These instruments are described briefly below, along with links to their respective data files. Numerical and other processed analytical results are generally provided in spreadsheet form. Associated metadata files including analytical protocols, sampling and recovery notes, and sample log files are presented in .pdf format. As-deployed images of instruments are provided in .jpg format, with image metadata summarized in spreadsheet-based catalogs.
- Osmosis-based Water Sampler (OSMOI) Data – This instrument class provides long-term sampling of diffuse and/or pore fluids at the seabed by drawing those fluids into small-bore, capillary tubing. The instrument currently deployed at Southern Hydrate Ridge samples pore fluids associated with methane seeps, while the instrument at the ASHES vent field on Axial Seamount is collocated with the 3-D Temperature Array (TMPSF) and samples diffuse fluids associated with hydrothermal flow. After instrument recovery, laboratory analyses provide major/trace element chemistry of these fluid samples.
Southern Hydrate Ridge OSMOI Data ASHES Vent Field OSMOI Data
- Hydrothermal Vent Fluid Interactive Sampler (RASFL) Data – This instrument collects fluid samples from hydrothermal vents at the International District Vent Field on Axial Seamount. It is collocated with the Particulate DNA Sampler (PPSDN; see below) and has an onboard temperature sensor (D1000) which continuously measures vent fluid temperatures. The sampler is able to be interactive, as its connection to the fiber optic cable allows two-way communication and power. Sample bottles can be triggered from shore in response to volcanic or tectonic events, or set to trigger at specified intervals. After instrument recovery, laboratory analyses provide chemical characterization of the hydrothermal fluid samples.
International District Vent Field RASFL Data – COMING SOON
- Particulate DNA Sampler (PPSDN) Data – This instrument filters and preserves the particulate matter associated with venting hydrothermal fluids at the International District Vent Field on Axial Seamount. The instrument is collocated with the Hydrothermal Vent Fluid Interactive Sampler (RASFL; see above) and can be similarly controlled remotely in response to volcanic or tectonic events. Upon recovery, genetic analysis of the particulates provides information on the microbial communities associated with hydrothermal vents.
International District Vent Field DNA Data
- Benthic Fluid Flow (FLOBN-C) Data – This instrument measures fluid flow at the sediment-water interface by monitoring the dilution of a chemical tracer injected into fluids at the seabed and collected in small-bore, capillary tubing by osmotic pumps. The “C” series of this instrument is a Chemical and Aqueous Transport (CAT) meter, and is deployed on or near methane seeps at the Southern Hydrate Ridge seabed. The recovered fluids are analyzed for chemical tracer and major ion concentrations, and flow rates are calculated.
Southern Hydrate Ridge FLOBN-C Data
- Benthic Fluid Flow (FLOBN-M) Data – This instrument measures fluid flow at the sediment-water interface by monitoring the dilution of a chemical tracer injected into pore fluids below the seabed and collected in small-bore, capillary tubing by osmotic pumps. The “M” series of this instrument is a Multiple Orifice Sampler and Quantitative Injection Tracer Observer (MOSQUITO), and is deployed on or near methane seeps at the Southern Hydrate Ridge seabed. The recovered fluids are analyzed for chemical tracer and major ion concentrations, and flow rates are calculated.