Ore and mineral analysis — XRF, WDX and ICP-MS
Choose methods for ores, concentrates, drill cores and construction materials: field screening, composition control or trace analysis.
Geological analysis ranges from rapid field assessment of material variability to laboratory determination of ore or concentrate composition. Each task needs representative sampling, suitable calibration and the sensitivity required for the target elements.
Handheld XRF can support sample selection and deposit mapping. A result from a small measurement area should not automatically be treated as the composition of an entire rock, core or batch of material.
How to choose an ore or mineral analyzer
- Field screening and exploration: EXPLORER 7000, a handheld XRF analyzer for ore and geological samples, with GPS to associate results with measurement locations.
- Laboratory composition control: WDX-4000, a sequential WDXRF system for mineral raw materials and construction products. Matrix and analytical program determine the scope and sensitivity.
- Trace analysis in a suitably prepared solution: ICP-MS2000. Digestion must be selected for the minerals and required determinations.
Moisture, particle size and sample preparation
Moisture, grain size and non-uniformity can change an XRF result. Field measurements on an exposed surface and laboratory measurements of dried, ground samples are not necessarily comparable without a defined procedure.
For powders, consider grinding and pressed-pellet preparation where appropriate. Reference materials of known composition and comparative testing help establish configuration suitability for the project.
Analyzers for field and laboratory work
xrf
EXPLORER 7000
Handheld XRF analyzer for ores and geological samples — with digital multichannel processing, built-in GPS and an HD camera for fast on-site elemental assessment.
- Handheld, lightweight, water- and dust-proof for harsh field use
- Digital multichannel processor — low detection limits, benchtop-class performance
- Built-in GPS — records coordinates, maps deposits and defines boundaries
- 270° rotatable 5-inch HD touchscreen and Bluetooth printing
wdx
WDX-4000
Sequential wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) spectrometer for precise elemental analysis from beryllium (Be) to uranium (U) — for geology, cement, metallurgy and environmental protection.
- Analysis of elements from Be(4) to U(92)
- Sequential design with a wide application range
- Innovative goniometer with a patented steel-belt drive
- Independent θ/2θ axes with servo drive and circular grating in a closed loop
Information to include in your inquiry
Describe the ore or raw material, elements and concentration ranges, sample form, field conditions and throughput. State whether the task is screening, production control or laboratory confirmation, and what sample preparation is available.
Questions about selection and measurement
Does a rock-surface result describe all of the material?
Not necessarily. Grain size, minerals and non-uniformity can produce differences. Sampling and preparation must match the analytical objective.
Does handheld XRF replace a laboratory?
It can support exploration and sample selection. Whether it is sufficient for a decision depends on the required data quality. Confirmation or trace determinations may need laboratory methods.