Applied analytical geochemistry

The analysis of geomaterials (e.g., rocks, minerals, soils, water) presents unique challenging related to their complexity. This hands-on unit will introduce the basic analytical tools used by geochemists and environmental scientists for measuring the mineralogical, chemical, and isotopic compositions of geomaterials. We will also cover some advanced topics, in particular the use of synchrotron light in geosciences.

The unit is suitable for any geoscientist working with geochemical data.

Specific topics covered include:

1. Laboratory inductions, basics of analytical chemistry (e.g., precision, accuracy, blanks)

2. Working in the wet lab.

3. Mass spectroscopy - trace elements

4. Mass spectroscopy - isotope ratios

5. Mass spectroscopy - geochronology

6. Sample prep. Budget. Plan a project.

7. Water chemistry

8. X-ray Diffraction

9. Synchrotron-based spectroscopy, diffraction and microscopy

10. Electron microscopy and microprobe techniques