The primary goals of the large-scale research project are thus: 1) to obtain an unequivocal age of dolomitization; and 2) to critically evaluate the source of dolomitizing fluid(s) and the hydrologic driving mechanism(s) in order to develop a well constrained framework in which to interpret the present geochemical data base. The objectives of this planning grant are twofold and reflect the need to address the feasibility of the large-scale goals prior to continuing with the project. The first objective of the preliminary research addresses if and exactly how Knox dolomites are related to other diagenetic minerals that yield radiometric and isotopic ages. The feasibility of tieing in these minerals with he established paragenesis of Knox dolomites in unmineralized areas will be tested. The second goal of the planning grant is to determine the feasibility of using radiogenic isotopes for direct age determination of minerals closely associated with the Knox burial dolomites.
