1. Analysis techniques

In a mineral analysis laboratory, most elemental assays (element concentration in a given sample) are performed using atomic spectroscopy techniques. The instrumentation market for these types of analysis essentially offers equipment originally designed for solution analysis. Only a few manufacturers still offer equipment designed for direct analysis of solid samples: X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRFS) and arc/spark atomic emission spectroscopy (AES). These two techniques enjoyed considerable growth between 1950 and 1970. At present, however, they are barely able to meet the analytical requirements currently being demanded. Indeed, research programs linked to the quality of the environment, the food chain or human health require the determination of trace and ultratrace elements, i.e. concentration levels that are practically inaccessible using these analytical techniques. However,...