Exploration analysis
Aqua regia digestion Aqua regia is a combination of hydrochloric and nitric acids in a nominal 3:1 ratio. This is a weak digestion for geological samples that is appropriate for initial site exploration. Aqua regia will not break down silicate and other refractory minerals, providing partial results for most elements. ICP-OES, ICP-MS or a combination of both techniques can be used to measure these digests. For samples containing high levels of organic matter or sulphide minerals, a modified aqua regia method (GE_ICP22B20 and/or GE_IMS22B20) is recommended. Instrumentation ICP-OES and ICP-MS are accepted in the mineral exploration industry as rapid and cost- effective means of analysis, because they determine many elements at low detection limits and wide ranges. Other instruments that can be used for specific elements are AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer) and Hydride AAS.
GE_ICP21B20 AQUA REGIA DIGESTION / ICP-OES PACKAGE Ag 2 - 100 ppm Hg
Sb Sc Sn
1 - 10,000 ppm
5 - 10,000 ppm 0.5 - 10,000 ppm 10 - 10,000 ppm 0.5 - 10,000 ppm
K
AI
0.005 - 15%
0.005 - 15%
Our global services provide a range of geochemical methods for finding and characterizing mineral deposits of every type. Discovering economically viable mineral deposits requires an expert understanding of the geochemical signatures and footprints of potential ore bodies. We lead the way in providing fit for purpose exploration geochemical analysis solutions that support exploration programs around the world. Utilizing a range of effective and proven methods, including our innovative Mobile Metal Ion (SGS MMI) technology, we can help you in the discovery of all categories of ore systems, including critical metals, industrial materials, base and precious metal deposits. We ensure that our solutions are tailored to your needs considering time, speed of analysis, cost and requirements of key stakeholders or disclosure legislation such as JORC, NI 43-101 and S-K 1300.
La
As 3 - 10,000 ppm Ba 2 - 10,000 ppm Be 0.5 - 2,500 ppm
0.5 - 10,000 ppm 1 - 10,000 ppm
Li
Sr
Mg Mn Mo
Ti
0.001 - 15%
0.001 - 15%
V
Bi
5 - 10,000 ppm
2 - 10,000 ppm 1 - 10,000 ppm
1 - 10,000 ppm 10 - 10,000 ppm 0.5 - 10,000 ppm
W
Ca 0.002 - 15% Cd 1 - 10,000 ppm Co 1 - 10,000 ppm
Na
Y
0.005 - 15%
Ni
Zn 1- 10,000 ppm
1 - 10,000 ppm
P
0.003 - 15%
Zr
Cr
1 - 10,000 ppm
0.5 - 10,000 ppm
Pb
Cu 0.5 - 10,000 ppm
2 - 10,000 ppm
Fe
S
0.01 - 15%
0.01 - 5%
Additional elements can be added upon request.
GE_IMS21B20 AQUA REGIA DIGESTION / ICP-MS PACKAGE Ag 0.01 - 10 ppm Ga
Multi-element exploration ICP-OES and ICP-MS packages
Sc Sn Sr Th Ti TI U V W
0.1 - 10,000 ppm 0.01 - 100 ppm
0.1 - 10,000 ppm 0.2 - 1,000 ppm 0.5 - 10,000 ppm 0.05 - 10,000 ppm
Hg
AI
0.01 - 10%
K
As 1 - 10,000 ppm Ba 5 - 10,000 ppm Be 0.05 - 100 ppm
0.01 - 10%
Sample digestion Sample digestion is one of the most important parameters to consider when choosing an analytical method. There are several types of digestion available, including:
La
0.1 - 10,000 ppm
Mg Mn Mo
0.01 - 15%
0.01 - 10%
Bi
0.01 - 10,000 ppm
2 - 10,000 ppm
0.02 - 10,000 ppm 0.05 - 10,000 ppm
Ca 0.01 - 15%
0.05 - 10,000 ppm
• Aqua regia digestion • Four acid digestion • Sodium peroxide fusion • Lithium metaborate fusion
Na
Cd 0.01 - 10,000 ppm Ce 0.02 - 1,000 ppm Co 0.1 - 10,000 ppm
0.01 - 10%
1 - 10,000 ppm
Ni
0.2- 10,000 ppm
0.05 - 10,000 ppm 0.05 - 10,000 ppm
P
Y
0.01 - 1%
Pb Rb Sb
Zn
Cr
1 - 10,000 ppm 0.5 - 10,000 ppm
0.2 - 10,000 ppm 0.05 - 10,000 ppm 0.05 - 10,000 ppm
1 - 10,000 ppm
Cu Fe
0.01 - 15%
Typically, reconnaissance exploration grade samples (including regional soil samples) are analyzed by aqua regia digestion followed by a multi-element scan for base metals, trace and lithological elements. Drill-core and rock samples are generally analyzed by four acid or fusion digestion, with a multi- element finish. Where metal contents are high, samples can require further testing by other methods to ensure data is precise and accurate enough for regulatory reporting. Refer to the Ore-Grade Analysis section in this guide.
18
19
Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker