Mineralogical Analysis Services
Mineralogical analysis examines materials to determine mineral composition and mineral structure. The analysis can be used to identify mineral species and understand their characteristics and properties. At Lucideon, we offer a wide range of mineralogical testing, much of which is accredited under ISO 17025:2017.
Our highly experienced analysts utilise a broad range of techniques for mineralogical evaluation, the primary techniques include: x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with associated energy dispersive micro analysis (EDA), optical microscopy, and petrographic analysis. Data interpretation is critical to mineralogical analysis so having the best team of operatives with the most appropriate instrumentation is essential.
XRD based techniques available at Lucideon include:
- X-Ray Powder Diffraction – identification of mineral phases and quantification in bulk samples
- Full Rietveld refinement – crystal cell structure determination
- Micro Diffraction (µ-XRD) – spatially resolved phase determination
- Grazing Incidence X-Ray Diffractometry (GID) – phase determination of thin films
- X-Ray Reflectometry (XRR) - thickness, density, and roughness of thin films
The microstructure, grain size, morphology, and bonding or reaction structures can be evaluated through SEM and optical microscopy. With energy dispersive analysis, spatially-specific elemental compositions can be determined.
Petrographic examinations are used to establish the nature and structure of materials and are widely used for rock and mineral samples as well as cements and concretes.
Typical applications:
- Industrial minerals, ceramics, rocks, and ores
- Quality control of raw materials
- Identification of unknown or deleterious components
- Coated products
- Corrosion products and corroded materials
- Fillers and colours for polymers
- Glass defects and failures including solar panels
- Electronic component defects
- Crystalline silica for occupational hygiene
- Phase boundaries
- Grain size measurements
- Crack propagation and failure mechanisms
- Concrete petrography
Analyses are often complimentary to other analytical techniques such as chemical, XRF or thermal analysis.