Speleothems or cave calcites are formed when water saturated in CO2 from soil zone enters a cave where the CO2 degasses. If degassing proceeds slowly in a stable-temperature environment, calcite can be precipitated in isotopic equilibrium with the parent drip water. In this case, the reconstruction of environmental conditions existing during the formation of the calcite can be possible.

Hungarian cave deposits were selected for high resolution stable isotope and trace element studies in the frame of the Geochemistry and Paleoclimate Research Group in order to follow changes in the paleoenvironment. Dated samples allow us to compare our results with other data gained from different sediments.

Applied analytical technics:

- Textual analysis of the collected stalagminte samples (optical and cathodoluminescence microscope)
- Electron microprobe analysis to determine the chemical composition and the auxiliary accessories of the investigated stalagmites
- Stable isotope measurements to examinate the source and the variability of the carbonate forming fluids in the stalagmites
- Inclusion fluids, measurements of hydrogen isotopes from the trapped water
- Geochronologic studies based on U-series age determinations, focussing on points where a sharp change in the stable isotope compositions can be recognised