The new frontier of microstructural impurity research in polar ice

• Published in: Annals of Glaciology
• Main Authors: Stoll, Nicolas, Bohleber, Pascal, Dallmayr, Remi, Wilhelms, Frank, Barbante, Carlo, Weikusat, Ilka
• Other Authors: Helmholtz Association, H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Cambridge University Press (CUP) 2023
• Subjects: Annals of Glaciology; ice core
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/aog.2023.61; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0260305523000617

Abstract Deciphering the localisation of solid and dissolved impurities on the micron-scale in glacial ice remains a challenge, but is critical to understand the integrity of ice core records and internal deformation. Here we report on the state-of-the-art in microstructural impurity research by highlighting recent progress in bringing together cryo-Raman spectroscopy and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). We show the potential of both methods and discuss possibilities to improve inter-method approaches aiming for a more holistic understanding of the evolution of impurity localisation throughout the ice column, including post-depositional processes. In this framework, we elaborate on future research priorities such as LA-ICP-MS imaging on firn samples and integrating a large cryo-cell with imaging capabilities.