Petrography is a powerful tool to investigate rocks samples and loose preparates. By means of a microscope we characterize the morphology, texture and mineralogy of the components as well as to describe post-depositional features (diagenesis). This enables us to perform environmental, biostratigraphic and stable isotope analyses, as well as pore-system evolution studies. Additionally we use Digital Image Analysis to quantify sedimentary fabrics and pore space structures.

The laboratory for light microscopy provides light optical images with topography and element contrast. The Microscopy Lab is equipped with a number of optical microscopes with reflected and transmitted light illumination and stereo microscopes.