Actlabs

Geochemistry

Jul 17, 2014

Geochemical analyses today are usually multi-element where a large suite of elements are determined to an intermediate level of accuracy. The use of this type of analysis is very dependent on the digestion used and the intended application of the data, i.e. “fitness for purpose”. For example aqua regia extractions are common, but will only dissolve sulphides, some oxides, and perhaps partially highly altered silicates. Resistant phases like zircon, monazite, sphene, chromite, barite and many other minerals, as well as most silicates, are not digested. This will be discussed more fully in the digestion section. Geochemical methods were designed to be a low cost screen for many elements and to try to get the lowest detection limits through minimal dilution before analysis. Compromises are made in the analysis to achieve this goal including dilution by “eye” rather than volumetric and a compromise of instrumental conditions to achieve a maximum amount of data perhaps not optimal for all elements. Matrix effects from the highly concentrated solutions also effects accuracy. Monitoring standards are also perhaps not available for all elements in the package. Despite all this, the accuracy will typically be +/-5-20% if the analyte is at least 10 times the stated detection limit. This type of analysis is NOT suitable to use if ore reserves are to be calculated.


Source: http://www.actlabs.com/page.aspx?menu=74&app=243&cat1=610&tp=2&lk=no

Sample Preparation Technician - Ancaster, Ontario

Sample Preparation Technicians will be working with rocks and preparing them for analysis. 

Fire Assay Technician
Activation Laboratories Ltd. (Actlabs)was established in 1987 and is one of Canada’s premier service laboratories supporting a vast array of clients. With head office situated in Ancaster Ontario, Actlabs provides services in over 90 countries and has several strategically positioned facilities that support global markets. We are recognized throughout the world as a leader in analytical testing, development services and delivering quality analysis. Actlabs provides analysis in the geoche