SELF-ASSESSMENT REPORT AND INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
SELF-ASSESSMENT REPORT AND INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN
Model structure
1. Quantitative characteristics (to be submitted via the online
platform)
1.1. Summary table (according to structure to be set by
ANCS)
1.2. Staff list by research teams (according to structure to be
set by ANCS)
1.3. List of publications and patents (according to structure to
be set by ANCS)
1.4. List of ongoing projects (according to structure to be set
by ANCS)
1.5. List of major equipments and infrastructures (according to
structure to be set by ANCS)
2. Self-assessment report for the previous 4 years
2.1. Administrative structure diagram of the institution
2.2. General activity report of the institution
The Geological Institute of Romania (GIR) was established by
Royal Decree in year 1906, continuing the activity of the
Geological Bureau which was in since operation 1882. The main goal
of the institute has been ever since and continues to be the
geological mapping of the national territory, to which successively
added assignments related to agrogeology, geophysics, geochemistry,
engineering geology, geological heritage conservation, a. s. o.
The results of the related investigations were published over
time in journals edited and published by the Geological Institute
of Romania: Dări de Seama/Comptes Rendus, Anuarul IGR, Memorii,
etc. The publications and the drafted maps alike underwent a
diversification process ensuing the emergence of new methiods and
techniques in Earth Sciences, such as remote sensing, environment
monitoring, geothermal investigations.
Throughout the more than 100 years of continuous activity, GIR
acted as a gravity center of the geological research in Romania by
bringing about continuous and balanced development of individual
branches of geological sciences, accompanied by public
dissemination of the knowledge and information resulting
therefrom.
Most of this activity was supported by the most extended
coverage in analitical facilities among the geological entities,
including universities.
Today as any other time, GIR is able to tackle with any topic in
the Earth Sciences, due to its highly qualified staff and mastering
information about the whole of the Romanian territory. In order to
fulfil it’s assignments as a national geological survey and to
harmonize its activity with the European trends set forth by
EuroGeoSurveys (The Association of national geological surveys of
the Europeean Community) of which is a full member since February
2006, GIR had to shape its activity by developing its expertizing
capabilities, its abilities to act as an advisor, as regards the
geological domains, of the political and administrative decidents,
by informatization of the national geological database,
digitization of the geological maps and a more intensive approach
of the issues related to environment protection (ambiental geology
and geophysics).
The main research and development topics assumed by GIR consist
of basic and applied research, technological progress, development
of studies and prognoses of public interest regarding:
· resolving the geological structure and evolution of the
national territory;
· setting up, editing and printing of gelogical,
hydrogeological, geophysical and geochemical maps at various scales
over the entire territory of the country;
· identification and outlining of areas hosting mineral
resources;
· setting up geological, geophysical, geochemical and
remote-sensing methods, procedures and techniques in order to
identify mineral resources, geothermal areas, assessment of risk
and pollution due to industrial activities, especially in mining
and oil-bearing areas.
These activities are augmented by:
· international cooperation activities in the fields of geology,
geophysics, geochemistry and remote sensing;
· exerting the responsibilities of a national geological survey
by implementing the organization, management and public valuation
of the national depository of geological data, preservation and
valuation of drill-core samples, of mineral and rock collections
and environment monitoring monitoring in mining areas (according to
government decision # 1070/2000).
The R&D activities are focused along the following
lines:
1. Setting up and updating national geothematic maps and
undertaking related complex studies in the field of Earth Sciences,
consisting of:
- editing the national geothematic maps and custom maps for
mineral resources;
- providing the planning support for geological prospection,
exploration and territorial management;
- assessing, monitoring and management of mineral resources
- risk assessment and establishment of regulations for
mitigation of natural hazard effects;
- setting up, updating and editing maps at different scales [n
various sampling environments, assessing and monitoring pollution
degree;
- setting up geothematic atlases and packages in the field of
paleontology petrology, petrophysics, mineralogy, minerallized
underground waters, ore geology;
- classification of geologic objects and establishment of
regional and global comparison and classification;
- investigation of the structure and evolution of the
lithosphere on the territory of Romania.
2. Establishment and developing of the national geological
fund:
- maintenance, management and digitization of the national
geological database.
- editing monograph studies on major structural unit and
geological inetrest topics.
- digitization of the setting up processes for maps, models,
monographs, atlases and studies.
- integrated digital processing of the geonomic information,
correlation with terrain models, editing and setting up Q&A
scenarios of the geonomic database.
- setting up a GIS structure and compatibilization of the
databases including the potential of national mineral commodities
and the national geological data database.
- collection, inventory and systematisation of the collections
in the National Geological Museum and the National Drill-Core
Depository.
R&D activities carried out in GIR during the 2007-2001
time-span display the following general structure:
a. activities in the Nucleu Program, aimed to preserve and
develop basic research activities in the Earth Sciences field
(mineralogy, petrology, paleontology, stratigraphy, geophysics,
geological mapping, etc.) traditionally carried out by IGR.
b. research in projects of the national R&D programmes
(CEEX, CNCSIS, PNCDI 2 – Capacities, Partnerships, Ideas
modules);
c. surveys in the National Plan of Geological Investigations of
the Ministry of Economy and Commerce ;
d. contract-based research and surveys for private businesses
and administration departments;
e. international cooperation activities in the field of Earth
Sciences by virtue of bilateral agreements at institutional and
government level, and international programmes (FP 7, South-East
Europe Transnational Cooperation and CIP ICT-PSP.
Among the main results of the research activity in the period
2007-2011 the following results are noteworthy:
- The digital geological map of Romania, scale 1:50000 – 18
quadrangles;
-The geochemical map of Romania scale 1:1.000.000 –– sector V.
Dâmboviţa-V. Argeş;
- Conversion guide and operational flow-chart for conversion of
spatial dat from the OCAD application in GIS databases
- GIS database for the geological map, scale 1:1.000.000;
- software application for metadata and data dictionnaries
management;
- software application for internet display of geological maps;
geological map of Romania scales 1:1.000.000, 1:200000 şi
1:50000;
- geophysical database, GIS-intergrated regional and local
geophysical maps web page;
- modelling and hydrogeological parameters assessment of the
unsaturated area neighbouring CNE Cernavoda and DFDSMA Saligny
- algorithm and software applicartion for calculation of the 2D
spectrum (in wavenumbers) of a seismogram.
- soft ASPECTDS (Spectral Analysis of Seismic Data) –
Preliminary processing of seismic data and integral processing for
phase velocities analysis of the Rayleigh seismic waves.
- methodological guide for optimal utilization of arc and spark
spectra in the 240nm-350nm domain for Cu, Fe, Zn, Al in rock
samples.
- rock-magnetic, paleogeomagnetic and magnetic models of the
magnetic recording environment represented by the coal measures
sampled in quarries and drilliongs in the Dacic Basin;
- processing technology of the high-quality quartz from Cuca –
Bucegi, Voineşiţa and Ilova.
- processing flow for the batches containing heavy and abrasive
minerals (magnetite, ilmenite, garnet) from the alluvia of Romania
and assessment of the possibility of their use;
- establishing the technological flow for secondary recovery of
raw-materials from tailings;
- assessment methodology of the spectral features for mining
industry waste-dump monitoring and model database;
- evaluation of gas-bearing structures from the Transylvanian
Basin for possible reservoirs for geological storage of CO2;
- isotopical composition of the main mineral water sources from
the Balvanyos si Malnas areas.
- scientific documentation and promotion of the high-interest
geologic sites from natural reserves;
- the geological bibliography of Romania– Pdf electronic
editions;
In order to support research activity, constant attention was
paid to the development and extension of the research
infrastructure with specific analytical equipment, resulting in the
following laboratory facilities:
- Radiometry laboratory: Low-background gamma spectrometer
equiped with a HPGe detector; Low-background gamma spectrometer
equiped with a NaI (Tl) detector, Rn measuring system PYLON AB – 5
;
- Mineralogy lab equipped with: XRD Bruker D8 Advance; FTIR
Spectrometer Bruker Tensor 27 şi Simultaneous thermal analyzer
STA 449 C Jupiter;
- GEOECOLAB equipped with: ICP-AAS ZEEnit – 700 Spectrometer and
XRF MiniPAL-4. Spectrometer.
Technology transfer in the field of geological research was
accomplished by:
- dissemination of geothematic cartographic materials drafted at
various scales and designed to meet various needs (road
infrastructures, geological exploration for minerals and rocks,
mineral and geothermal waters, civil engineering works, aso.)
- research contracts with public and private enterprises and
authorities both in Romania and abroad.
Research activity materialized in 20 publications in ISI
publications with non-zero impact factor, a a total of 292
publications in books and national and international
periodicals.
In the 2007-2011 time span, aside participating in international
congresses, conferences, meetings and symposia, GIR organized
symposia and workshops with international attendance, such as:
- The 3rd Anniversary Symposium GeObMag (Surlari National
Geomagnetic Observatory – 65 years of continous work)(2008)
- „Landslides – The impact on the environment and society”
(2008, 2009, 2010);
- “Application of modern analytical methods to investigate the
cultural heritage degradation” (2011);
- The 12nd NECLIME Annual Meeting (2011);
- SARMa Consortium Project Meeting (2010);
- THERMOMAP Consortium Project Meeting (2010);
- SARMa National workshop (2010, 2011).
Paralelly, the National Geology Museum was a continuously felt
presence in public promotion of the geological sciences, oranizing
thematic workshops for pupils and students, conferences, temporary
exhibitions, other activities connected to The Night of the
Museums, the Night of the Researcher, the Showroom of Research
aso.
The personnel policy of GIR targeted towards employing, by
competition, of young researchers in the main fields of its
activity, especially to properly and timely train personnel able to
ensure the continuartion of these research directions.
The emprovement of the quality of the human resources was a
continuous concern of GIR, expressed by a significant increase of
the number of young reserchers.
Continuing higher-education forms such as master degrees or
promotion are constantly supported and stimulated by the institute,
including by financial means. Noticeable is the acceptance of some
of our doctoral students in the framework of the European Social
Fund, Sectorial Operational Program Human Resources Development
2007-2013, Priority Axis no.1 "Education and professional training
in support of economic growth and the development of the knowledge
based society" Major field of intervention 1.5 – “Doctoral and
postdoctoral programmes supporting researchi”
For areas of interest requiring recruiting highly qualified
personnel, GIR supported own funds training stages for the young
personnel, such as:
- resistivity imaging methods (Electrical Imaging Seminar, AGE,
Madrid, Spain);
- use of magnetic satellite data and global models at Helmholtz
Centre Potsdam - GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ),
Physics of the Earth, Section Earth Magnetic Field;
- correlation of satellite data used in global modelling of the
magnetic field of the Earth with observatory data at lUniversité
Paris Diderot, Paris 7 - Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris,
Géophysique spatiale et planétaire, France ;
Constant connections with the universitary environment is
ensured by part-time teaching assignements or temporary research
positions in research teams of the University in Bucharest.
2.3. Activity report by team
GeoHaz (E3) is a multidisciplinary team, taking into
consideration the specificity of the studies on the effects of
land’s instability. In general, are specialists in engineering
geology, hydrogeology, geophysics, mineralogy, GIS, etc. This
explains the great number of researchers, with different ages and
professional degrees, from the list of personal projects. Staff
fluctuations (changes) are explained in that some researchers have
been retired, were transferred, are in for raising the child, leave
obtained research fellowships etc.
From the point of view of expertise, persons which participate
in this projects have a high degree of training, with a PhD or
doctoral degree; experience in the field addressed by each project
is proved by the number of scientific works, of the coordinated
projects.
A particular objective is the training of young researchers, the
more active involvement in their work, the aquisition and
processing of primary information, studies etc.
In addition, this team, or a part of it, get involved in private
business contracts offering technical assistance or expertise in
the field of engineering geology, hydrogeology, geophysics etc.
Professionalism of team members, as well as their desire to
address new methods of study of land’s instability phenomena (and
not only), led to co-opting GIR in 2 European research projects, as
well as in different consortium that have made and will make other
project proposals of this type.
The result of the above-mentioned it’s represented by: 11
projects and contracts conducted in the past 4 years, scientific
works (15, 1 ISI) sustained oral and poster, two books (in
collaboration), and two projects submitted (1 bilateral and 1 of
European funds) in course of evaluation.
The team GIS&database (E2) is working in Geoinformatics
field and is focused on the training, specialization and experience
of the team leader in these the following: GIS, databases, software
and web development, geostatistics, etc.. The specific projects
have included various specific stages: database design,
implementation, spatial and / or attribute data input, software
application development.
The other team members have contributed in the following
activities: collecting specific information for database, creation
(introduction) of spatial and attribute data, classification of
geological objects.
Only for the last four years, the team or its members
participated in six national and international projects, some
leaded by other teams. The most important achievements can be
staggered as follows:
• Analysis, design and implementation of a GIS database for
waste dumps research using combined methods (mineralogical,
physical, remote sensing);
• Analysis, design and implementation of a GIS database for
geological maps at scales 1:1.000.000, 1:200.000 and 1:50.000; it
can define the following:
· The GIS database project is a framework for the development of
geological maps using GIS technology, database model was made
taking into account the latest technologies and the experience of
other organizations in the world;
· for implementation the model has been verified by pilot phase
for each scale topographic maps;
· have been studied "open source" and commercial technologies
with practical implementation to the level of cartography (Quantum
GIS GvSIG, ArcGIS, Mapserver, PostgreSQL / PostGIS, VTP, Grass, PHP
/ MapScript), finally Quantum GIS, PostgreSQL / PostGIS, MapSever
and ArcGIS were used;
· two flows have been established for the introduction of
spatial data in GIS database: one for data in the OCAD and second
format for new data created form analogical support;
· have been established the type and classification models used
in the database dictionaries; it have made dictionaries for some
initial classification, as well a general dictionary for all sheets
of 1:200.000 scale geological map;
· used databases: ArcGIS geodatabase with Access and PostgreSQL
with PostGIS extension;
· have been carried out studies and pilot phases for the display
of spatial data on the Internet: webGIS and WMS services using
ArcGIS Server or Mapserver, PHP MapScript API library;
· one was made an application for metadata management using PHP
and MySQL as database;
· have been created symbols, display formats (layouts), shaded
relief and 3D presentations.
· the created a model is a framework that allows spatial data
entry for geological maps;
· it is necessary to develop this activity by integrating into
the GIS database of all spatial data; it can be drown the next few
lines of action:
· establishing a unique appropriate topographic base;
· development of dictionaries by specialized staff;
· development of specific software applications;
· develop use of internet technology for presentation: webGIS,
WMS, WFS;
· the use of all methods for standardization of data in
accordance with international classifications: IUGS, INSPIRE,
etc.
· development of methods for interoperability and harmonization
of data using GeoSciML;
· geometric and semantic harmonisation of geological map
sheets.
• Develop software applications to manage attribute data;
• Develop applications and web services for geological mapping,
display and query of spatial data on the Internet (using "open
source" - Mapserver-PostgreSQL-PHP and commercial - ArcGIS Server
technologies);
• Creation of GIS database for mineral resources with goal to
create the framework for spatial and attribute information
management, and implementation of mineral resources map of Romania
at 1:500.000 scale;
• Development of various thematic maps or collections of data
required in various projects;
• Publication of articles in professional journals and writing
reports on topic of projects.
It is necessary to develop the area by using GIS technology for
geological information, mineral resources, hazard, geological
monitoring of targets of interest, etc. For this is necessary
hardware and software equipment and the increasing the number of
professionals specialized in various fields. Is known that over 80%
of GIS activity is required for data acquisition, so is necessary
to establish and develop a group of specialized operators for the
spatial data introducing.
Due to increased use of GIS technology in the Geological
Institute of Romania includes virtually all technical departments,
it is necessary to create a specialized department to carry out GIS
operations to create, manage, save and analyze spatial data. Using
server technologies in the database, the storing of all information
involve specialized spatial data servers that allow concurrent
access, create, manage and secure information in a superior
way.
Several conclusions can be drawn to represent milestones in the
development of this field:
• GIS technology and databases are used in most areas; virtually
all of the research projects from geology field use this type of
technology;
• it is necessary to develop new specialists in various fields,
as well as group for the management and data creation;
• it is necessary to apply this technology to new areas with
direct implications in the current activities of the society;
• Virtually all information should be included in this database,
with many advantages in their operation;
• for the development of GIS systems participate various types
of specialists from various fields, requiring classification,
updating and harmonization of information;
• In the field of geological maps is necessary to update
information, use of unique and actual topographic data and
effective classification of entities, harmonization of constituent
sheets of map;
• It is necessary to use spatial analysis with many advantages
for solving various problems or objectives of the research
subjects; the response is in the form of tables of information and
new thematic maps.
The research team MetPetr (E1) has at the time of submission two
senior members (dr. Gavril Săbău, CS I, dr. Elena Negulescu, CS
III), a doctoral student (Ramona Nimirciag) and technical personnel
(Costel Tănase responsible for thin sections preparation and Petre
Macovei for field sampling and logistics). Main specialties of the
members are mineralogy, petrology and petrogenesis of metamorphic
rocks, geothermobarometry, computation of phase diagrams, and
thermodynamic modelling and geochronology. Their expertise is used
to manage national and international scientific projects focusing
on:
- revealing the internal structure of basement units in the
South Carpathians, based on structural mapping and evaluation of
mineral assemblages, metamorphic equilibrium conditions and their
mutual compatibilities (proj. F2, CF1, 3 listed below);
- building a comprehensive picture of the geodynamic history of
complex and multistage Paleozoic terrane-collage involving basement
units from the Carpathian-Balkan region (proj. CF2, F3);
- complex researches regarding the intra-continental
intermediate-depth earthquakes genesis (proj. F1).
The major geotectonic processes which took place inside the
terrestrial crusts were investigated using methods based on atomic
scale physics phenomena evaluated through geochemical laboratory
techniques. The interdisciplinary nature of the projects is
confirmed through use of chemistry fundamentals, math, computer
sciences, etc. necessary to understand the intermolecular processes
(e.g. intra- and intercrystalline diffusion) and to apply the
requested numerical modelling.
The team members are continually seeking for good opportunities
for high-standard training and research through international
cooperation relationships (e.g. Institut für Mineralogie und
Kristallchemie, Stuttgart, Geological Institute of Bulgaria,
University of Arizona) and thus contributing to a substantially
increased level of knowledge of the structure and genesis of the
Romanian South Carpathians while also increasing the international
visibility of the Romanian research. Data dissemination was
attained through participation in international conferences (e.g.
convener of the “High-Pressure Metamorphism in South-eastern
Europe”, Session V25/V13A - conveners G. Săbău, Romania and H.-J.
Massonne, Germany, Section V Volcanology, Geochemistry, and
Petrology, AGU Fall Meeting 2007, San Francisco CA) as well via a
number of publications in ISI indexed journals, with high impact
factor (e.g. Journal of Petrology).
One of the goals of the research team is improving the research
infrastructure. A BXT51 Olympus microscopic system with both
transmitted and reflected light, equipped with a digital Olympus
CZ-5050 camera and Olympus DP-soft package that allow the on-line
storage of pictures of relevant microscopic field and organised in
databases was acquired during an institutional partnership between
Institut für Mineralogie und Kristallchemie, Stuttgart and GIR
financed by AvH Foundation (proj. no.1).
Another important focus is the continuous development of
advancement of evolution of the human resources. In 2007 E.
Negulescu, one of the team members, completed her PhD with a Magna
cum Laude distinction (program financially supported by the AvH
foundation). Early stage researchers, like doctoral student Ramona
Nimirciag, are involved in project no. 8, playing an active role in
carrying out research activities, ensuring that the project stays
on track, generally working and training on new methodologies in a
highly specialized scientific environment which will ultimately
enhance the student's professional development.
Significant (the most important) scientific achievements
2007-2011:
- MetPetr team created 5 geological reports (IGR Archive) and
published 19 scientific papers in national and international
journals, accumulating 30 citations (according to Web of Science).
The CNCSIS (Romania) Prize, sem. I/2009 was awarded for one paper
published in Journal of Petrology (Relative AIS 2.435).
- team members participated in national and international
research contracts and grants as well as academic co-operations;
managed a sub-set of projects within the geological programme of
the Romanian Ministry of Industry and of the Romanian Ministry of
Education and Research (PN, CEEX, PN-II-ID-PCE) and international
projects:
1. 2004-2008 Institutional partnership between Institut für
Mineralogie und Kristallchemie, Stuttgart and Geological Institute
of Romania financed by AvH Foundation: “P-T-t evolution of the
pre-Alpine basement units of the South Carpathians”, project
manager dr. G. Săbău, doctoral student E. Negulescu.
2. 2006-2008 CEEX INDEGEN “Complex researches regarding the
intracontinental intermediate-depth earthquakes genesis from the
Vrancea zone”, pr. manager dr.G. Săbău.
3. 2006-2008 CUNGEOL PN 0632 0101 “National Geothematic Maps” -
pr. manager dr. G. Săbău.
4. 2009-2011 CUNGEOL PN 21N/2009 “Geological Bibliography of
Romania” - project manager dr. G. Săbău.
5. 2008-2011 Inter-academic exchange: “Major tectonometamorphic
events in the basement units of the South Carpathian – Balkan
orogens”, project manager dr. G. Săbău.
6. 2011 Geological programme of the Romanian Ministry of Economy
M.E.C.M.E.A. “Geological synthesis report regarding the
non-metallic mineral resources (graphite, talc, asbestos,
Al-silicates, garnet) from the South Carpathians, pr. manager dr.
E. Negulescu.
7. 2011-2014 PN-II-ID-PCE-2011 “The architecture of Romanian
metamorphic basement units: a chronological insight from monazite
electron microprobe chemical age determinations”, project manager
Gavril Săbău, doctoral student Nimirciag Ramona.
8. 2012-2014 Inter-academic exchange: “Cadomian and Hercynian
events in the South Carpathian and Balkan orogens”, project manager
dr. G. Săbău.
Relevant scientific results emerging from the previously
mentioned projects:
- original data processing methods of microprobe analyses were
developed in collaboration regarding derivation of mineral
formulae, error assessment, chemical age determinations and
Schreinemakers analysis of chemical systems;
- additional information regarding mineral phases known as
CCZN-armalcolites, concluding that the material such described in
the literature actually represent terms of the crichtonite group or
structurally-related novel close-packed oxide phases; first
identification of loveringite in Romania in material of this type
(Săbău & Alberico, 2007);
- contributions regarding the relationship between growth stages
and chemical composition of eclogitic garnet, including unusual
zoning patterns, evidence for resorption-driven re-orientation
during agglutination of crystal clusters, and regular trends in
elemental ratios that can be used to highlight successive growth
sections in composite garnet porphyroblasts (e.g. Negulescu et al.
2007; Negulescu, 2009);
- derivation of a precise explicit approximation of the age
equation in the U-Th-Pb system, allowing direct calculation of the
age from element concentrations and precise tracking of the
stepwise propagation of the errors, in order to estimate the errors
of individual analyses from the standard errors associated to
elemental concentrations (Săbău, 2009a);
- mineral compositions and mineral assemblages that are either
unique in Romania or belong to a restricted number of natural
occurrences in the world were also identified and described in
several units of the Leaota Massif (Negulescu et al., 2009;
Negulescu & Săbău, 2009; Negulescu, 2009; Negulescu &
Săbău, 2010).
List of the relevant scientific papers emerging from the
previously mentioned projects:
Săbău G., Alberico A. (2007) What is CCZN-armalcolite? A
crystal-chemical discussion and an ad-hoc incursion in the
crichtonite-minerals group. St. Univ Babeş-Bolyai 52(2), 55-66.
Săbău G., Massonne H.-J. (2007) Setting and Paleozoic age of the
HP-complexes in the South Carpathians, Eos Trans. AGU, 88(52), Fall
Meet. Suppl., Abstract V13A-1140.
Negulescu E., Săbău G., Massonne H.-J. (2007) The Origin and
Significance of Eclogite and Metagabbronorite Knockers from the
Bughea Complex, South Carpathians, Eos Trans. AGU, 88(52), Fall
Meet. Suppl., Abstract V13A-1141.
Beşutiu L., Atanasiu L., Mitrofan H., Zlagnean L., Radulian M.,
Popa M., Rogozea M., Săbău G., Negulescu E., Baltreş A., Rus T.,
Danciu V., Moldoveanu C., Neuner J. (2008) New insights on the
structure and dynamics of the intermediate-depth seismic zone
located in the bending area of east Carpathians: INDEGEN project.
33 IGC, Oslo.
Negulescu E., Săbău G., Massonne H.-J. (2009) Chloritoid-Bearing
Mineral Assemblages in High-Pressure Metapelites from the Bughea
Complex, Leaota Massif (South Carpathians). Journal of Petrology
50, No. 1, 103-125. Impact factor: 3.738.
Săbău G., Negulescu E. (2009) Seismic consequences of mineral
phase transitions, In: Beşuţiu L. (ed.) INDEGEN - Integrated
research on the intermediate depth earthquake genesis within
Vrancea Zone, Ed. Vergiliu, 184-198.
Negulescu E. (2009) Semnificaţia mineralelor şi a asociaţiilor
minerale în determinarea istoriei metamorfice a cristalinului
masivului Leaota (The significance of minerals and mineral
assemblages in deriving the metamorphic history of the Leaota
Massif crystalline basement). E-Book,
http://negulescu.greencats.ro/, ISBN 978-973-0-07196-2, 466p.
Săbău G. (2009) Ti-Nb-REE assemblages in the monazite veins at
Jolotca, Ditrău alkaline massif. In: Anastasiu N., Duliu O. (eds.)
Mineralogy and Geodiversity - Tributes to the career of Professor
Emil Constantinescu, Editura Academiei Române - Editura
Universităţii din Bucureşti, 143-153
Săbău G. (2009a) CHIME U-Th-Pb - geochronology: an explicit age
formulation as a function of element concentrations Romanian
Journal of Mineralogy 84, 68-71.
Negulescu E., Săbău, G. (2009) Mineral diversity in the Leaota
Massif: trivial to unique compositions in metamorphic assemblages.
Romanian Journal of Mineralogy 84, 75-77.
Negulescu E. (2010) Silicaţii din roci metamorfice. Date
cristalochimice şi structurale. (The silicates of metamorphic
rocks. Crystal-chemical and structural data). E-Book,
http://negulescu.greencats.ro/ ISBN 978-973-0-08871-7, 105 p.
Săbău G., Negulescu E. (2010) Ocurenţa monazitului în unităţile
de fundament ale Carpaţilor Meridionali – context şi date chimice.
Romanian Geological Society, Annual Conference Bucharest, 5-6 Nov.
2010.
Negulescu E., Săbău G. (2010) Inferring the history of
metamorphic rocks using garnet data. A case study from the Leaota
Massif. Romanian Geological Society, Annual Conference Bucharest,
5-6 Nov. 2010.
Negulescu, E., Săbău, G. (2011) A low variance mineral
assemblage in the Bughiţa Albeştilor eclogites (Leaota Massif,
South Carpathians). The 3-rd International Symposium on the Geology
of the Black Sea Region – 3-rd ISGB, Bucureşti, 1 - 10 oct.. 2011,
Geo-Echo-Marina no. 17, p. 115-120.
Zagorchev, I., Balica, C., Balintoni, I., Kozhoukharova, E.,
Dimitrescu, R., Săbău, G., Negulescu, E. (2011) New Isotopic Data
on the Metamorphic Rocks in SW Bulgaria. The 3-rd International
Symposium on the Geology of the Black Sea Region – 3-rd ISGB,
Bucureşti, 1 - 10 oct.. 2011, Geo-Echo-Marina no. 17, p.
222-225.
Zagorchev I., Balica C., Balintoni I., Kozhoukharova E., Săbău
G., Dimitrescu R., Negulescu E., New isotopic data on the Cadomian
age of the Frolosh metamorphic complex and the Struma diorite
complex. Geosciences 2011 (in press).
This incomplete team we named “Palaeontology Research Team”
include a small number of specialists covering palaeobotany (with
fossil wood study, plant mega-remains and imprints, and
palinology), micropalaeontology and macropalaeontology (mollusks,
vertebrates). In the last five years the members of this team -
Iamandei Stanila, Iamandei Eugenia, Paraschiv Valentin, Grigore
Dan, Sebe Oana Gabriela si Antoniade Claudia - developed 4
important research projects, some of them recently finished.
1.Modelling of palaeoclimate evolution within Carpathian area
based on the Coenophytic Floras in Romania.
2.The geo- and biodiversity of Bicaz Gorges – Hasmas National
Park
Integrated study of geological, geographical, biological
enrichment of the natural heritage of the park and expanding its
boundaries
3.Petrified Forests from Romania described by paleoxylological
studies, their paleoclimatic significance and their designation as
protected areas
4.Major climatic fluctuations in the Romanian Miocene:
palaeobotanic proves.
Their previous activity passed by other projects and themes of
research, PhD preparation in this field of interest. A new member
appeared Rodica Tita, now postdoc. After a PhD Thesis on mollusks.
They participated in scientific events (symposia, conferences),
presenting the results of their researches and have published them
within national or international scientific journals ISI or BDI
indexed.
Regarding the dynamic of the subjects it can be stressed that it
was not a simple identification of a fossil taxon, but
identification of fossil populations with palaeoclimatic or
palaeoenvironmental significance and interpretations of global
geological events was done with much interest in the climatic and
environmental evolutions in the present days
In this respect the evolution of the research is visible in the
last papers of the team, and within the much comprehensive research
projects developed in the last years (http://www.igr.ro/).
The team members were included in some interdisciplinary
projects regarding protected areas, and in an intense educational
activity including public conferences, or a complementary
geological education to the school people.
So, our team include some experienced researchers (3), some
young researchers, postdoc (2) and some young aspirants to PhD (2)
dealing with micropalaeontology. In time we try to sustain the
scientific activity of the young people, to prepare the tomorrow
researchers. Our interest is to stabilize the young researchers in
our institution.
If the possibilities to go in field trips for scientific
prospection will grow, the young researchers will specialize and
the missing of project competition in the last years influenced
negatively the evolution of our young colleagues.
The Q-Sint (Quartz Synthesis) team was founded in mid 2009. At
that time, the Geological Institute of Romania gains a project
whose aim was to elaborate a synthesis on the quartz deposits of
Romania, in view of obtaining ultra high purity quartz products.
So, this team appears as a necessity to solve this challenge.
The main researches of the team are:
Dr. Daniel Ion – senior researcher, teamleader,
Eng. Constantin Rusu – senior researcher,
Eng. Nelu Floria – senior researcher.
For the complex works that had to be done, many researches,
engineers and technical stuff of the Institute were also involved,
and still are, in this project. The team was composed of various
members from one month to another according to the specific of the
work and, at the same time, depending on the possibility of each
member to participate, at a time, in this project.
As it was already pointed out, the aim of this project was to
inventory and to investigate all the quartz deposits of Romania
that could be able to become potential sources to extract ultra
high purity quartz. Until the end of the ’80s, only the quartz
accumulations used in the glass and fine ceramics industries were
better known. Later, the most important results obtained are
referring to the new possibilities of re-evaluation of the
synmetamorphic quartz which proved to be the raw material for the
production of synthetic quartz crystals. This kind of crystals are
very useful for the optic and electronic industries. The pure
synthetic quartz crystals obtained in the laboratory attest the
economic importance of the studied accumulations.
In the whole area of the Romanian Carpathian Orogen (East
Carpathians, South Carpathians, as well as Apuseni Mountains), with
a complex evolution and structure, several types of genetic quartz
can be identified.
The quartz deposits from Romania belong to three genetic
types:
- Synmetmorphic quartz;
- Quartz from Pegmatites;
- Quartziferous sands and quartzitic conglomerates.
During these three years were analyzed the synmetamorphic quartz
deposits (Cuca-Bucegi, Voineşiţa, Ilova, Uricani, Vârciorova,
Mănăstireni) and only a part of the pegmatitic quartz deposits
(Lotru-Cataracte, Muntele Rece). This analyze consists of
geological, chemical and mineralogical investigations as well as
technological tests in view to establish the best processing
flowsheet. The results were more than those awaited and at the same
time were very encouraging to continue this activity. Therefore, in
the forthcoming years the Q-Sint team is ready to approach the
synthetic researches for quartz of the other pegmatitic deposits
and mostly the quartz of the sedimentary domain, that is to say the
quartziferous sands and the quartzitic conglomerates.
At the same time is to be mentioned that the experience gained
in this work makes possible the engagement of the team in other
similar researches for metaliferous and non-metaliferous
resources.
The activity in a big team like RS (Remote Sensing) -GEOMATICS
(over 12 persons) started in 2010 (CF3- Eurogeosource) and the main
output was contributing, together with other partners in the
project, to the development of a mineral resource data model and
energy resource data model to be used in the project.
The first step was identifying the different type of users of
mineral and energy resource data and analyzing their needs. Another
analysis was focused on data providers (i.e. over ten geological
institutes in Europe, mining offices, exploration and exploitation
license granting agencies etc.) regarding the data format and
content, format types and intellectual property rights. Based on
the user requirements and data availability in the participating
geological surveys it was decided to make up one separate model for
mineral resources and one model for energy resources (oil, gas,
coal) trying to follow as close as possible the INSPIRE Data
Specifications issued by the Technical Working Groups. An exercise
was made to map the EuroGeoSource model to the INSPIRE model and on
this occasion it was found out that not all codes defined in the
INSPIRE Data Specifications for the above-mentioned themes were
suitable for the real mineral and energy resource data.
Therefore, comments were made to the Technical Work Groups to
add or change codes and/or classification scheme (e.g. alteration
types, mineral deposit types etc.). This type of activity is of
great importance due to the fact that the countries are obliged by
the INSPIRE Directive to implement commonly established standards
for data exchange.
Another important activity was focused on transposing the
existent mineral and energy resource data from paper maps into a
digital GIS format, creating viewable and downloadable web-GIS
services and populating a relational Postgre SQL database, which
will be harvested for ensuring the required performance of services
on the cloud-operating portal.
Our institute is the leader of the Work Package “Awareness,
Dissemination and Exploitation” which is responsible with the
content updates of the project web page, as well as with the
sustainability of the project after its end of life. We take part
to every activity and work package in the project, being in the
phase of carrying out our web-GIS services for mineral
resources.
These services will be a development of the services that had
been created for a prototype of geophysical data
(http://geoportal.igr.ro/geofizica-v1) and the same technology will
also be used within the framework of the ThermoMap project (CF4),
where the objective is to estimate very shallow geothermic
potential of land for installing ground source heat exchangers.
This implies making up a database of soil, climate, surface geology
(quaternary deposits) and hydrogeological parameters for the test
zone selected in the Constanta county and calculating for three
depth levels the heat conductivity and heat capacity. These
computed values will be viewable on a GIS portal where various
types of users (companies installing heat pumps, universities,
local authorities and the general public) will be informed by this
Internet tool about the potential of their area of interest for
installing ground source heat pumps as an alternative renewable
energy source.
Team "GEORESOURCES". The list of the research team members
is:
No.
Surname and first name
Didactic/ scientific title
Doctorate
1
Cioacă Mihaela-Elena
Researcher
yes
2
Munteanu Marian
SR III
yes
3
Marincea Ştefan
SR I
yes
4
Mărunţiu Marcel
SR I
yes
5
Călin Nicolae
Res. Assistant
no
The team members have undertaken studies on mineral resources
(metallic and non-metallic). Since 2009, the team collaborated
closely with the GIS specialists, in a process constituting the
construction of a digital database of the geological conditions of
the mineral resources in Romania. The team members worked in
several projects, as shown below.
(1) In the year 2010, the team conducted one project with the
title "Synthesis of the geological research for the bauxites in
Romania", funded by the Ministry of Economy, Commerce and Business.
The team made a synthesis of the information on the bauxite
resources of Romania, with a focus on the resources from the
Apuseni Mountains (geological conditions, grade, mineralogical
composition).
(2) SARMa project, under the South-East Europe Transnational
Cooperation Programme. The project aims to develop a common
approach to sustainable aggregates management across the South-East
Europe, and ensure a sustainable aggregates supply in the
South-East Europe based on fair distribution of costs and benefits
of aggregate production, use, waste disposal and recycling, so as
to enhance resource and energy efficiency and quality of life. The
project ended in 2011.
(3) EuroGeoSource is a project co-funded by the Competitiveness
and Innovation Framework Programme (CIP), under the Policy Support
Programme (PSP), Geographic Information Theme. It aims to make a
data portal, which allows access by Internet to the aggregated
geographical information on oil and gas fields, including prospects
and mineral deposits, in order to stimulate investment in new
prospects for geo-energy resources, as well as in renewing
production at mines undergoing economic decline or closure,
contributing this way to the independence of the EU having to
import valuable minerals from outside resources. Ten countries from
EU participate to the EuroGeoSource project, which The Geological
Institute of Romania is the coordinator of the Workpackage 11
“Awareness, Dissemination and Exploitation”. The team members
contributed to the organization of the mineral resources database
to be used by the portal (identification of the users of the
portal, attribute definition, etc) and to the dissemination of the
information on the project.
(4) ProMine project started on May 2009 and is carried on by a
consortium led by Geological Survey of Finland and composed of 27
partners from 11 EU member states. Considering the fact that, for
some strategic metals, EU is totally dependent on import, the
efficiency of the overall production chain of minerals and metals
in Europe should be enhanced by putting higher quality and added
value products on the market. ProMine aims to: (a) develop a
pan-European GIS-based database containing the known and predicted
metalliferous and non-metalliferous resources, which together
define the strategic reserves (including secondary resources) of
the EU; (b) calculate the volumes of potentially strategic metals
(e.g. cobalt, niobium, vanadium, antimony, platinum group elements
and REE) and minerals that are currently not extracted in Europe;
(c) to develop new, high value, mineral-based (nano) products; (d)
to enlarge the number of profitable potential targets in Europe;
(e) to establish a new, cross-platform information group between
the European Technology Platform on Sustainable Mineral Resources
(ETP-SMR) and other platforms. The team members were involved in
the completion and update of the information regarding the primary
and secondary ore deposits in Romania.
A recent focus of the team is the investigation of the
distribution of platinum group elements (PGE) in the magmatic rocks
from Romania. This is meant to fill a gap of knowledge, as there is
no published information on PGE in Romania. PGE have multiple uses
(in medical industry, in electronics, in nanotechnology, in
jewellery and for optical instruments), but the main reason for the
keen economic interest in PGE is their extensive use in the
automobile industry, by the replacement of lead catalysts
(pollutant) with platinum catalysts (not pollutant). Additionally,
the distribution of PGE in igneous rocks provides information with
regard to the genesis, evolution and metallogenesis of their
parental magmas. Therefore, the economic interest in this line of
investigation is accompanied by a scientific benefit, with positive
implications for the future research for other mineral resources.
The team is currently working in two ongoing projects involving PGE
investigation:
(5) "Evaluation of the PGE potential of the mafic-ultramafic
intrusions in Romania using the experience from the investigation
of Panxi area, South-West China". The project is undertaken within
the program of bilateral cooperation between China and Romania. It
began in April 2011 and will be ended in November 2012. Several
mafic-ultramafic intrusions from Romania were sampled and are being
analyzed for their PGE contents, in order to identify indications
of possible economic accumulations.
(6) “Investigation of the rare elements in the porphyry copper
deposits from Romania”. The project is funded by the National
Council for Scientific Research. It began in October 2011 and will
end in September 2013. The project aims at the investigation of the
contents of high-tech elements (REE, PGE, Re, Ti, V, Ga, Ge, Li,
In, Te etc.) in several intrusions that contain porphyry copper
mineralization (Moldova Nouă, Roşia Poieni, Bucium Tarniţa,
Bolcana). This involve mineralogical and petrographic studies,
geochemical investigations of the target deposits, study of the
spatial distribution of the PGE in the targeted deposits
(identification of the possible correlations between PGE and
certain mineralogical assemblages and alteration zones), assessment
of the transport and precipitation conditions for PGE based on
fluid inclusions study, construction of metallogenetic models for
each targeted deposit and extrapolation of the results to the scale
of the metallogenetic provinces, when possible.
Given the implication of the team members in different projects
that imply time-consuming activities, and the increasing interest
for the mineral resources in the EU, the addition of new team
members is necessary. This will be done by recruiting geology
graduates during the next four years and training them in the field
of mineral resources.
The team members presented their scientific contributions by the
participation with oral presentations and posters at professional
meetings (national and international) and by the publication of
their results in scientific articles, mentioned in the publication
lists.
The main objectives of the GeoMag team are to continuously
measure the geomagnetic field and to determine the geomagnetic
activity, in order to study the dynamics of the Earth´s magnetic
field and its interactions with the Earth system.
Since 1943, the geomagnetic observatory is located 40 km NE of
Bucharest, ensuring the continuous of the measurements. The
observatory data contributes to the developing global geomagnetic
field models (International Geomagnetic Reference Field-IGRF, World
Magnetic Model-WMM) in the frame of two international cooperation
programs: INTERMAGNET (www.intermagnet.org) and MagNetE
(http://www.gfz-potsdam.de/ portal/
gfz/Struktur/Departments/Department+2/ sec23/ infrastructure
/repeat_ stations/ MagNetE).
The first one, INTERMAGNET is worldwide near-real-time
geomagnetic observatory data. INTERMAGNET has, in little more than
10 years, grown into a worldwide federation of institutions running
magnetic observatories, and become the de facto professional body
representing magnetic observatory operators. The INTERMAGNET
objective is to establish a
global network of co-operating digital magnetic observatories
adopting modern standard
specifications for measuring and recording equipment in order to
facilitate data exchange
and the production of geomagnetic data products in close to real
time. The initiative to establish INTERMAGNET was supported by the
International Association of Geomagnetism and Aeronomy (IAGA) and
close contact is maintained with the IAGA bodies with interests in
magnetic observatory practice, data, data derivatives, and
applications.
The second is meanwhile known as MagNetE (Magnetic Network of
Europe), and supported by a resolution of IAGA (International
Association of Geomagnetism and Aeronomy). Geomagnetic repeat
station surveys have a long tradition in many European countries
and they have been carried out independently in the individual
countries, either in Romania by GeoMag team. It has been difficult
for a long time to use the data efficiently for studies of
geomagnetic secular variation of the whole continent. A more
homogeneous spatial and temporal distribution of high quality
repeat station data was desirable. Therefore, starting with 2003,
at the European level, started an exchange of experiences and
coordinate the individual European efforts. The result was an
initiative to carry out common geomagnetic repeat station surveys
in the European countries every two years. As a result of the
common efforts, the first map of declination for Europe was
presented in May 2011 in Rome.
The scientific investigation of the Earth's magnetic field is
the oldest branch of geophysics, and possibly even one of the
oldest branches of scientific fields ever. In this Age of Discovery
the magnetic field is measured intensively, not only for scientific
reasons but for navigation. Today the measurements of the GeoMag
team mostly serve to answer basic questions about dynamic processes
occurring deep within the Earth, and in near-Earth space, useful
for Romanian Aviation Safety. We provide airport geomagnetic
(declination) surveys. The personnel are especially suited to
perform compass rose surveys to establish the difference between
magnetic and true North. In this application, the geomagnetic field
is used as a navigational tool.
Geomagnetic variations studies, its spatio-temporal structure,
processes and effects on system Earth are another scientific
objectives. Earth’s magnetic field has been in existence since the
early history of our planet, and it is known to be caused by dynamo
action in the liquid outer core. Due to the instability of this
process, reversals of the predominant dipolar component, as well as
relatively short periods of very weak total fields occur at
irregular intervals. Currently the geomagnetic field strength
decreases quite rapidly. The dipolar part has dropped by 10 %
within the past 300 years. In the northern atlantic region the
present rate of decrease is 100 nT/year, that is, 25 % per century.
Such rapidly declining field strength may be interpreted as an
indication for a forthcoming field reversal, or for a relatively
large recent field. Since the magnetic field jointly with the
atmosphere shields Earth’s surface against incident high-energy
cosmic rays, it is crucial to investigate the spatial structure and
the temporal evolution of field reversals, as well as details of
geomagnetic variations, their causes and effects on Earth’s
atmosphere. This continuous programme aims at a more complete
understanding of the spatio-temporal structure of geomagnetic
variations in general, and of field reversal periods in particular.
Furthermore, associated geodynamical processes are investigated in
cooperation with other European research institutes by means of
numerical modelling and observations in order to identify the key
mechanisms that cause geomagnetic variations, and potential effects
on the system Earth will be studied.
Recent results of GeoMag team provide evidence for the existence
of variations in induction vectors associated with geodynamic
processes. Earthquakes (EQs) and volcanic eruption precursors have
an aperiodic temporal regime and appear once or several times prior
to their occurrence. The regular periodic variations of induction
vector are also observed, and they are a new interesting
geophysical phenomenon. These periodic variations must be
considered as a background while looking for precursory signals
associated with EQs and volcanic activities. Annual and diurnal
variations obtained from the processing of synchronous data of many
observatories in Southeastern Europe are analized for identifying
precursory information.
Research carried out by GeoMag team at the observatory during
its seventy years of continuous work has largely contributed to the
Romanian geosciences field through remarkable studies in:
· secular variation and normal magnetic field in Romania:
bringing the magnetic map making works to the same epoch at a
unitary level, at a regional, national or continental scale and
comparisons of national reference levels with other European
observatories;
· local peculiarities of transient geomagnetic phenomena:
geomagnetic data from other observatories are correlated with our
geomagnetic recordings with the aim of distinguishing between
planetary and regional or local phenomena, as well as the improving
of geophysical models of deep structures, or to establish
prediction routines and tectonogenetic analyses of seismic movement
in Vrancea area or the earthquakes of intramoesic fault;
· international geomagnetic reference field (IGRF), which
provides updated models;
· issues regarding convection currents in outer Earth core, the
theory of dynamo and mantle and global tectonics;
· establishing the distribution of subsoil electric conductivity
and the localization of large conductivity anomalies, correlated
with deep geological structure;
· recordings of geomagnetic field in almost 200 stations
distributed all over Romania, processed especially for
phenomenological studies of geomagnetic field induction in the
subsoil by means of magnetotelluric soundings along European
corridors;
· providing data for unitary magnetic map of Europe;
· tectonomagnetic studies, applicable in establishing earthquake
prediction factors and dynamics of ionosphere electric currents and
outer magnetic field;
· establishing the magnetic declination, essential especially
around large airports, for air traffic;
· improvement and development of the instruments used in
registering and measuring geomagnetic field elements, with multiple
use, from geophysical prospecting to archaeology and medicine, as
well as the calibration of these instruments under non-magnetic
conditions;
Nowadays GeoMag team contributes also at some of the ways in
which geomagnetism becomes useful in today’s world:
· establishing global indices describing magnetic activity and
finding other new parameters for an objective evaluation of the
“magnetic status”, important in the study of inductive effect in
electric power transmission systems, of induction in long
pipelines, as well as in communication system, satellite damage and
tracking;
· quantification of geomagnetic storms which can create
overburdens in national energetic system, in high frequency radio
communications network, disruption of GPS or strong disturbances in
the geomagnetic field with significant and yet incompletely known
effect;
At the same time many studies reveal specific connections such
as the well-known covariation of sunspot solar activity and
geomagnetic disturbances or the possibility that the thermospheric
heating by electric currents associated with magnetic storms may
cause global modification of the atmospheric pressure and
year-to-year changes in growing-season length, rainfall,
thunderstorms and in the end, climatic variation in solar-weather
relationship. These connections to global weather and with living
organisms are future interesting directions for geomagnetic
activity predictions at Surlari National Geomagnetic
Observatory.
Team acronim: GeoCart
Members:
Ion Gheuca, geologist, SRII
Viorel Ilinca, geomorphologist, RA
Ana Vizinteanu, cartographer
Georgeta Dumitrescu, cartographer
Gabriel Baralia, cartographer
Projects description:
In the period 2007-2011 the research team worked in various
projects, both scientific and economic which were related to the
field geologic mapping. The most important projects are attended by
team in term of geologic mapping were for:
- Updating, harmonization and computerization of geological and
geophysical maps of Romania (PN 03/2006-2008);
- Fundamental research on framing seismic risk classes of dams
located in the Moesian Platform. Probabilistic and deterministic
approach – CEEX MENER 713/2006;
- The new geologic map of the Cheile Bicazului-Hăşmaş National
Park in the research project
“The geo- and biodiversity of Bicaz Gorges – Hăşmaş National
Park. Integrated studz of geological, geographical, biological
enrichment of the natural heritage of the park and expanding its
boundaries” (GEOBIOHAZ) – 2009-2011;
- Synthetic geologic maps for many National and Natural Parks
from Romania (Măcin Mountains National Park, Iron Gate Natural
Park, Balta Brăilei Natural Park, Comana Natural Park and for Buzău
Geoparc project) – 2009-2011;
- Updating and digitizing the geological map of Romania
(1:50.000 and 1:500.000 scales) - PN 09210101;
- The future A1 Highway route (the sector between Piteşti and
Sibiu) for Egis Group Romania (2008);
- Detailed geologic map for the Lower Ciuc Depression for S.C.
Tuşnad Ape Minerale (2009).
- Synthetic maps for evaporite rocks (salt, gypsum, and tuff)
from the external Carpathians area for Hunt Oil Company of Romania
(2011).
Management of geologic maps
The team has also responsabilities regarding the management of
geological and hidrogeological maps edited by Geological Institute
of Romania and also completion of the geological map sheets which
have not been published by now. Achievement of some geological maps
is otherwise done by geologists from other departmenst or research
team.
The geological maps are made with the help of some cartographic
and GIS software like Ocad and ArcGIS.
2.4. Representative project
Since its foundation, back in 1906, the Geological Institute of
Romania had the mission of making the geological map of Romania, at
various scales, for a better use of the land and natural resources.
On this purpose, the Geological Institute of Romania built teams
with mapping experience and varied specializations: sedimentary,
metamorphism, magmatism, paleontology, geochronology, etc. A
mapping commission was created during the 1970s to ensure the
homogeneity and correlation of the symbols and interpretations of
the geological information from different sheets.
Based on the mentioned mission and organization, the Geological
Institute of Romania edited the geological map of Romania at the
scales 1:500,000 (1910-1958) , 1:200,000 (1965-1968) and
1:1,000,000 (1978), the last one being part of an atlas comprising
several thematic maps (gravity, geomagnetic, hydrogeological,
resources map, soil map etc).
In 1970, the Geological Institute of Romania began the National
program of editing the Geological Map of Romania at the scale
1:50,000. Till 1990, 130 sheets of the geological map 1:50,000 were
printed, most of them in the Carpathians, where the geology is most
complex. After 1990, the mapping program was funded scarcely. Only
5 new sheets were printed and other ca. 100 sheets were edited
partially (Fig. 1).
Under these circumstances, the completion of the geological map
at the scale 1:50,000 is currently progressing based on the
information from other research projects implemented by the
Geological Institute of Romania. Concurrently, the Geological
Institute of Romania began the vectorization of the geological maps
and the creation of GIS databases for the geological maps at scales
1:1.000.000, 1:200.000 and 1:50.000. Model maps for each scale and
different software packages were tested in a pilot phase. As a
result, Quantum GIS, PostgreSQL/PostGIS, MapSever and ArcGIS were
chosen for the conversion of the geological spatial data.
Dictionaries for geological terminology and classification are
being elaborated. The databases are created using ArcGIS with
Access and PostgreSQL with PostGIS extension. For the display of
spatial data on the Internet the GIS team employed webGIS and WMS
services using ArcGIS Server or Mapserver, PHP MapScript API
library. An application for metadata management was created using
PHP and MySQL.
Fig. 1. Spatial distribution of the published and not published
sheets of the Geological Map of Romania, scale 1:50,000.
The accepted GIS model is a framework that allows spatial data
entry for geological maps. The current concern is to integrate all
spatial data into the GIS database. This would imply several lines
of action:
· establishing a unique topographic base for the geological maps
at all scales;
· creation of dictionaries by specialized staff;
· development of specific software applications;
· use of the internet technology for presentation: webGIS, WMS,
WFS;
· the use of all methods for standardization of data in
accordance with international classifications: IUGS, INSPIRE,
etc.
· development of methods for interoperability and harmonization
of data using GeoSciML;
· geometric and semantic harmonisation of geological map
sheets.
· Development od software applications to manage attribute
data;
· Development of applications and web services for geological
mapping, display and query of spatial data on the Internet (using
"open source" - Mapserver-PostgreSQL-PHP and commercial - ArcGIS
Server technologies);
· Creation of GIS database for mineral resources with the goal
to create the framework for spatial and attribute information
management, and implementation of mineral resources map of Romania
at 1:500.000 scale;
· Development of various thematic maps or collections of data
required in various projects;
It is a current concern to integrate GIS technology in all
fields of research approached by the Geological Institute of
Romania, such as mineral and energy resources, geological hazard,
geological monitoring, etc. On this purpose, the Geological
Institute of Romania has a program of acquisition of hardware
equipment and specialized software and to involve more specialists
from various fields of earth sciences and IT. As over 80% of GIS
activity is spent for data acquisition, the Geological Institute of
Romania planned to establish and develop a group of specialized
operators for the input of spatial data.
The activities employed for the development of the GIS system
will be undertaken in conjunction with the participation of the
Geological Institute of Romania to the implementation of the
INSPIRE Directive in Romania. The Geological Institute of Romania
has a leading position for the Theme II-4 Geology and is
colaborating with the National Agency for Mineral Resources for the
Themes III-20 Energy Resources and III-21 Mineral Resources. The
harmonisation of the geological spatial data between Romania and
the other countries of the European Union has actually begun by the
participation of the Geological Institute of Romania in several
international project such as OneGeology, EuroGeoSource and
Promine.
3. Institutional development plan for the next 4 years (maximum
15 pages)
3.1. Scientific SWOT analysis.
3.1.1. Strengths
· The status of a national geological survey, stipulated by
national legislation, which allows the access to research programs
financed by European funds.
· Existing geological database, which sums up the results of
more than a century of geologic activity.
· The Geological Institute of Romania administrates the National
Drillcore Repository, of crucial importance for the geological
studies and for exploration of mineral resources and hydrocarbon
deposits.
· Existence of staff with experience and competence for the
management and implementation of complex research projects;
· Notoriety of the Institute, recognized and appreciated as a
professional authority both in Romania and abroad;
· The Geological Institute of Romania is member of the European
Association of Geological Surveys (Eurogeosurveys).
· The Institute has a logistic system suited for complex
geological activity;
· Services adequate for documentation, technology transfer and
dissemination of results;
· The Geological Institute of Romania administrates and services
installations of international recognition, such as the National
Geological Museum and National Geomagnetic Observatory;
· The Geological Institute of Romania has the exclusive right to
edit and publish the geological and geo-thematic maps.
3.1.2. Weaknesses
· Historical financial debts to the state, which preclude the
participation of the Geological Institute of Romania in some
project competitions.
· Lack of enough funds to attract and keep the best young
specialists; migration of highly skilled staff to the private
organizations or to better funded public institutions.
· High average age of the research personnel.
· Insufficient technical equipment.
· Lack of official acts to regulate the relations between the
Geological Institute of Romania and the National Agency for Mineral
Resources. This institutional fracture leads to incomplete
information and services acquired by investors and duplication of
some activities undertaken by the two institutions.
3.1.3. Opportunities
· The need of data harmonisation across the EU creates
opportunities of collaboration with the geological surveys from
other Eu countries.
· The Geological Institute of Romania can participate to
international projects funded by the EU, diversifying the research
topics and extending the capacities of managing new projects.
· Increase of the social interest for geological information in
areas like the management of water resources and waste,
environmental protection, identification and assessment of natural
hazards, etc., creates the opportunity if the Institute to extend
the volume of work in numerous research fields.
· The Institute can participate in projects focused on the
geological hazard and risk assessment concerning landslides,
subsidence, land collapse, volcanism, drought, floods,
avalanches.
· Qualification and training of the personnel using the EU
programs.
· Obtaining certification by the Ministry of Environment and
Forests for the study of environmental impact, which would allow
the Institute to braden the range of private customers.
· Working with Waste Management Directorate of the Ministry of
Environment for the projects concerning brownfields and their
reinstatement in the economic circuit.
· Cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and participation
in tenders for contracts on stability studies of sea cliffs.
· Participation to the Governmental research strategy - Horizon
2020 Danube, Black Sea Strategy and the creation of international
consortia of time to succeed to attract European funds.
3.1.4. Threats
· Historical debts to the state budget prevents accessing
structural funds.
· The National Drill Core Repository, legally owned by the
Agency for Mineral resources, is hosted in an old building located
on land currently owned by private enterprises who threat to
evacuate the drill-cores, lack of any financing whatsoever for
management and maintenance of the Repository.
3.2. Strategic scientific objectives and directions.
3.2.1. Updating and completion of the National Geological Maps.
Harmonisation of the spatial geological data with the similar data
in the EU countries, in agreement with the regulations of the
INSPIRE Directive of the European Community, Theme II-4. All
spatial data with geological significance will to be converted in
GIS databases and ETRS1989 coordinate system.
3.2.2. Development of the research on the mineral and energy
resources. Enhancement of the analytical facilities and of the
equipment of geophysical investigation.
3.2.3. Development of the capabilities of research in
environmental geology (slope stability, landslides, hydrogeology);
extended collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment,
Ministry of Regional Development and local authorities.
3.2.4. Increased involvement in interdisciplinary research
projects, such as the collaboration with archeological institutions
(detection of buried constructions and objects, studies of material
provenance for archeological artifacts made of stone, ceramic and
metal).
3.2.5. Some priority research areas:
• Geodata systems and multi-dimensional modeling
• High-tech metal and critical raw materials perspectives;
• Geologic deep-seated repository of dangerous wastes and CO2
geological storage;
• Innovative exploration technologies
• Recycling, new and alternative materials;
• Environmental impact management and measurement.
3.2.6. Updating the database of representative geological sites
and take the necessary steps to declare new geological protected
area and geoparks.
3.3. The human resource strategy.
As the geological institute of Romania has an aged personnel, an
active recruitment policy is envisaged. This is closely related to
the access to funding from research projects. The hired young
specialists need to be trained by the older staff in order to gain
work experience and professional confidence.
On the other hand, the Institute also aims at the institutional
strengthening through training programmes and participation of the
scientists in national and international Seminars and Workshops.
The aim is to deal with and coordinate the activities pertaining to
international matters and collaborative programmes.
Several research fields are no longer covered with specialized
people (hydrocarbon geology, technical geology, aso). The Institute
will hire young geologists who will be sent to specialization
courses in Romania and abroad.
An International division will deal with international and EU
research programmes and also will serve as the Secretariat of the
Institute for the geological programmes in which the institution is
participating.
A Technical Consultancy Service will be concerned with all the
commercial activities correlated with geological and geophysical
projects.
IGR will rise the performances related to engineering geology
and will maintain close liaison between the Institute and Ministry
of Economy, Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Education,
Research and Youth, and National Authority of Scientific
Research.
A Training Institute headquarter will be established at Surlari
National Geomagnetic Observatory as a Center of Continuous
Improvement in Life and Earth Sciences. There, the Institute will
conduct different types of training for up to 60 persons at a time,
keeping pace with the latest development and trends in Earth
sciences and with its own priorities. The training courses will be
designed in a sequential manner to develop specialized skills for
functioning as competent geoscientists and for shouldering
professional responsibilities with confidence. The specialized
training programmes will continue on a regular basis to improve the
knowledge and expertise of the personnel.
3.4. Mechanisms for stimulating the appearance of new research
directions.
Recruitment and training of the best students on the purpose of
hiring them after graduation. This can be achieved by inviting the
students to work in the projects contracted by the GIR, to go in
field trips together with the specialists from the GIR, to use the
future center of excellence and conferences at the Geomagnetic
Observatory Surlari, to participate to the professional meetings
organized by GIR etc.
3.5. Financial SWOT analysis.
3.5.1. Strengths
· Participation in international projects which attract EU
funding.
· Quick ratio at 12.31.2010 = 1.55 ensures coverage of current
debts by current assets
· Indebtedness (borrowed capital/own capital) equals 0.
· Turnover speed for client debits equals 20.
3.5.2. Weaknesses
· existence of historical debts
Due to the historical debts, non participation to attract
Structural Funds and cohesion funds which can be made in 2
ways:
· Project proposals for different Programmes
· Contracting by tender participation organized by Ministries
that are eligible to manage cohesion funds, like funds allocated
for environment and transportation
· lack of adequate resources for stabilizing young personnel by
wages meeting their needs
3.5.3. Opportunities
· Growing public interest for geological information underlining
environment issues, resource management, assessment of natural
hazards, facilitating participation in national and international
projects tackling with these topics.
3.5.4. Threats
· Historically perpetuated debts towards the state budget.
· increased and inequal competition in getting funds with
research and administrative units with constant financing from the
state budget
3.6. Infrastructure: investment plan and strategy.
The National Geological Museum needs to be re-organized
according to the new modalities of presentation; the building of
the National Geological Museum, built in 1906, need to be
consolidated and repaired. The collections exposed in the Museum
need to be reorganized and equipped with modern facilities in order
to enhance their educational impact.
New equipment and software needs to be acquired in order to
increase the capacity of the Institute to diversify its activities
and to improve the quality of its services, thus of its commercial
competitiveness.
An program of development of the Geomagnetic observatory as a
Center of Continuous Improvement in Life and Earth Sciences will be
carried out. The feasibility study have been alredy done.
Construction of a new building for the National Drillcore
Repository and the relocation of the drillcores. The actual
building is degraded and located in an area owned by private
persons.
Funds need to be allocated for the electronic access to the
scientific literature. Concurrently, the printed versions of the
most important journals need to be purchased, in order to maintain
the importance of the National Geological Library.
The analytical equipment will be completed with additional
accessories and standards to increase the research capabilities of
the Institute.
IGR will be proactive in recognizing the strategic role of IT in
the present scientific research environment and will implement a
robust information infrastructure based on an open, state of the
art technology platform. This will help the Institute in automating
its business processes and create the premises for the management
of the vast volume of geoscientific data gathered over the last 118
years by way of a centralized digital archive and treat these as
corporate resource with well-defined access protocol. This solution
will facilitate knowledge creation, paperless administration,
information management, dissemination of information, revenue
generation, and enhance the visibility of the organization and
furthermore provide a cost-effective means of sustenance and
growth.
Acquisition of a magnetometer, portable seismic station with 24
– 48 channels, GPR.
3.7. Technology transfer and the attraction of non-public
funds.
The Geological Institute of Romania will participate to
public-private partnerships for great investment projects:
highways, mineral resources exploitation etc.
The Institute will focus on the establishment of key research
areas such as geoscience surveys, mineral deposits research, basin
analysis and petroleum geology, environmental geology, climate
change science, as well as transfer mechanisms and key technology
development. The core will be research partnerships which will
facilitate sharing of expertise and resources for project delivery
in response to the future customers needs for geoscience
information and knowledge.
Creation of theme-based geoscientific database in several
domains such as: geochemical exploration, ore geology, geophysics,
remote sensing, thermometry, natural hazard, environmental geology
and rock sample analysis is continuing. The geomagnetic activity
database is being continuously updated.
IGR has taken the initiative to call on the expertise of both
scientific researchers in geomagnetism (modelers, surveyors,
geophysicists) and aeronautical experts (pilots, aircraft
operators, and airport managers) to improve aeronautical and
airport safety. This technology transfer will unite the two
professional groups around a navigation instrument: the magnetic
compass and non-public funds will be attracted. In this way, we
shall prove how the knowledge of geomagnetism and in particular
magnetic declination, can be used to improve aeronautical
safety.
3.8. Strategic partnerships and visibility: events,
communications, collaborations.
The Geological institute of Romania will implement a strategy
for development and dissemination of geo-scientific information.
The projects launched to achieve this goal will include Project
IGR.Net, Project IGR.Portal and digital archival of Maps and
Unpublished Reports. The objective is to have a repository of all
reports in the archive of the Institute in a format overriding the
inherent heterogeneity lying within data sets of different projects
or methods. Once globally accessible this metadata should be used
for scientific and commercial purposes.
The Institute is also a member of the EuroGeoSurveys and will
continue to participate to the activities organized in the frame of
this professional organization.
The Institute will conclude strategic partnerships with the
following institutions:
- Ministry of Environment and Forests, on the following issues:
certification for the development of impact studies, geological
reports in case of investments that could have a significant impact
on soil and groundwater, brownfields rehabilitation, protected
areas, forest monitoring based on satellite images, etc.
- Romanian National Administration of Waters, on the following
issues: risk management for floods, groundwater resources
management.
- The National Agency for Mineral Resources – databases
exchanges, studies for authorization of works according to Mining
Law, revision and proposals to improve the Mining Law, reporting
based on Inspire Directive, etc.
- Ministry of Home Affairs for studies of territorial
management, landslides, etc.
- Ministry of Economy for studies of mineral resources and
geothermal resources.
- Universities, for exchange of specialists, common projects,
conferences, student training, graduate and postgraduate
recruitment, etc.
The Institute will apply for projects in the EU’s Raw Material
Initiative.
The specialists of the Institute will participate at least at
the most important international congresses in geosciences, and
will publish their results as scientific articles in ISI-ranked
publications.