EARTHCHEM.ORG: INTEGRATING DATA MANAGEMENT FOR IGNEOUS GEOCHEMISTRY

Geochemical data for igneous rocks and minerals are an intrinsic part of the diverse data set that is needed to shape and improve our understanding of Earth characteristics, processes and evolution. Until a few years ago, utilization of geochemical data was impeded by the lack of easily accessible, comprehensive data compilations. GEOROC, NAVDAT and PetDB are three independent database efforts that have dramatically advanced management and accessibility of geochemical data by producing relational databases for igneous rock geochemistry – each one with its own sub-disciplinary goal - with interactive on-line access to their data sets. Collaboration between the projects has ensured that the individual databases employ a similar data schema leading to exemplary cross database compatibility.

EarthChem (http://www.earthchem.org) showcases the combined effort of these databases to create an integrated information system for rock geochemistry. Addressing some of the challenges that the development of an integrated cyber infrastructure for the Geosciences presents, EarthChem will focus its activities on (1) archiving legacy data, (2) developing a system that will guarantee correct and comprehensive reporting of future data and that will allow rapid dissemination of new data through dynamic population of the databases, (3) ensuring cross database compatibility that will promote closer cooperation and easier integration with broader pan-Geoscience information technology developments (GEON, CHRONOS, ISES-CI, ISS, GERM), (4) developing analytical tools for using the geochemical data in geochemical, petrological and geological applications.