Sunday, March 22, 2009

Qualitative techniques

Qualitatives techniques of microscope use are not particularly difficult and can be learned with practice and dedication over a short period of time. However, there are a few general concerns that should be noted.

  • Some of the more sophisticated equipment used in mineralographic studies (e.q., equipment for quantitative refelctivity measurements) may be difficult or impossible to access in the setting of an operating mine. Hence, on-site mineralogic studies generally emphasize qualitative procedures as described in this course
  • Suplementary techniques may be required to solve particular problems e.q., binocular microscope, chemical stains, petrographic microscope electron micropobe, XRD facility, quantitative image analysis (e.q. quantiment), etc
  • High quality microscope optics are required to enhance contrast for mineral identification purposes. Chemical etching of polished surfaces to emphasize textured features may also be a useful adjunct to the routine examination of polished surfaces.

written by natalia(dita)

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