Analysis of Geological Materials

This volume describes the chemical analysis of geological materials, presenting an integrated view of geoanalysis by discussing analytical methodology in the context of geological field sampling and data interpretation.;Written by experts in the field, Analysis of Geological Materials: provides an overview of geochemical research and implications for the analytical laboratory; identifies the strong link between sample collection in the field and treatment of the sample in the laboratory; reviews the mechanical techniques used to prepare a typical pulp representation of the original field sample; offers a comprehensive overview of analytical methods available in the modern laboratory; includes a special section on methods used in the field and in remote locations; considers methods capable of determining isotope ratios and microprobe processes that can generate spatially resolved data; covers commercial samples in which a sample matrix is atypical and an inaccurate analysis can have major financial implications; explains what should be included in QA and AC programs designed for a laboratory where clients require different levels of assured quality; and contains extensive examples of the interpretation of geoanalytical data.