Multi-technique Analysis of Geological Materials

Geological materials are the basis for many of the materials used in the infrastructure and products that we rely on day to day – as such, it is essential that we understand what elements are present in them and how to best extract them. Geological materials also enable us to understand the history of our planet and develop strategies for dealing with natural hazards. All of these reasons make it essential that we are able to comprehensively analyse geological samples, extracting critical information from them in the most efficient way possible.

An analytically equipped SEM is an excellent approach for this task and, as we discuss in this tutorial, can host multiple, complementary techniques to provide the necessary information.

In this tutorial, we demonstrate how, in a single NanoAnalysis platform it is possible to create workflows that extend from initial sample investigation, to automated mineralogy and beyond – incorporating EPMA level quantifications of composition, down to a trace element level, as well as understanding the structure of geological samples from their crystallographic properties.

You will learn how:

• A modern nanoanalysis system can perform multiple jobs in geological analysis
• WDS can provide EPMA level quantification in the same analytical platform used for general analysis
• EBSD can provide additional geological information to aid in interpretation