Huifang Xu

Huifang Xu is a Professor in the Department of Geoscience at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, located in Weeks Hall. Her research focuses on interdisciplinary geochemistry and mineralogy, particularly crystal chemistry of clays and nano-crystals, roles of nanopores in geochemical reactions, microbial influences on mineral formation, and carbon sequestration via mineralization. She investigates banded iron formations (BIF), functional minerals for environmental remediation, and renewable energy applications.

Key research themes include: 1) geochemical reactions in confined nano-pore environments, 2) mechanisms of dolomite and BIF formation, and 3) interfacial mineral processes. Her work bridges laboratory experiments with natural environmental systems, addressing critical zone processes.

Current graduate advisee: Tianyu Zhou. Teaching includes GEOSCI 331 (Gems), GEOSCI 360 (Mineralogy), and GEOSCI 765 (Crystal Chemistry). Research employs advanced techniques like synchrotron X-ray diffraction, TEM imaging, and isotopic analysis.

Publications span over two decades, with recent emphases on mineral structure solutions (e.g., opal-CT, labradorite feldspars), shock metamorphism studies, and low-temperature carbonate formation mechanisms. Her work has implications for understanding Earth's early oxygenation, climate proxies, and engineered mineral systems for carbon capture.