Analytical Methods in Geochemical Prospecting

Handbook of Exploration Geochemistry, Volume I: Analytical Methods in Geochemical Prospecting focuses on the principles, methodologies, approaches, and techniques employed in geochemical prospecting. The book first underscores quality control in the laboratory, sample preparation, sample decomposition-solution techniques, and colorimetry and related techniques. Discussions focus on colorimetry, turbidimetric methods, strong decompositions, partial extractions, preparation of rock samples, random and systematic errors, and quality control program. The publication then takes a look at atomic absorption spectrophotometry, emission spectroscopy, and X-ray fluorescence. Concerns cover instrumentation, operation of the X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, flame emission spectroscopy, semi-quantitative DC-arc spectroscopy, and plasma sources. The text examines electrochemical methods, including determination of pH and specific ion electrodes. The publication is a dependable reference for researchers interested in the analytical methods in geochemical prospecting.

Editor's ForewordPrefaceChapter 1. Introduction Analysis of Exploration Samples: Choice of Methods Geochemical Considerations Analytical and Organizational Considerations Reporting Results SafetyChapter 2. Quality Control in the Laboratory Introduction Random Errors Precision Detection Limits Sources of and Reduction of Random Errors Laboratory Sampling Systematic Errors Contamination Drift Physical and Chemical Interferences Control and Monitoring of Systematic Errors Accuracy A Quality Control ProgrammeChapter 3. Sample Preparation Introduction Preparation of Rock Samples Soils and Sediments Vegetation WatersChapter 4. Sample Decomposition-Solution Techniques Introduction Strong Decompositions Acid Digestion Fusions Partial Extractions Application to Bedrock Samples Application to Soils and Sediments SummaryChapter 5. Colorimetry and Related Techniques Introduction Colorimetry Fluorimetry Turbidimetric MethodsChapter 6. Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry Introduction Theory Instrumentation The Light Source Production of Atomic Vapour Wavelength Selection Detection and Readout Systems Applications Flame Atomic Absorption Electrothermal Atomization Hydride Generation Determination of Mercury by Flameless AAS Indirect Determinations of Elements by AASChapter 7. Emission Spectroscopy Introduction Theory Flame Emission Spectroscopy Semi-Quantitative DC-Arc Spectroscopy Equipment Operating Conditions Standards for Semi-Quantitative DC-Arc Spectroscopy Analysis of Unknowns Direct-Reading DC-Arc Spectrometry Matrix Effects Background Spectral Interferences Plasma Sources the Inductively Coupled Plasma Analysis of Geochemical SamplesChapter 8. X-Ray Fluorescence Introduction Theory Excitation of X-Rays Interaction of X-Rays with Matter Instrumentation Primary Radiation Sources Dispersion of X-Rays Operation of the X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer Instrument Conditions Counting Strategy Analysis of Geochemical Samples Sample Preparation Matrix Corrections Line Interferences SummaryChapter 9. Electrochemical Methods Introduction Theory Determination of pH Specific Ion Electrodes Fluoride Chloride Iodide Copper BoronAppendix 1 - Colour PhotographsAppendix 2 - Preparation of StandardsReferencesSubject Index