Trace Elements and Isotopic Analysis of Natural Samples

Laser Ablation attached to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is widely accepted as a rapid and sensitive technique for trace element analysis of solid materials. Three different instruments are used: 1- a-The double focusing ICP-MS (JMS-PLASMAX2) is used for the analysis of rare earth elements in minerals as (monazite), and for rocks as (standard samples BCR-2, AGV-2), Also lead and strontium isotope ratios in tourmaline sample solution. b- A quadrupole (ELAN6000, Perkin Elmer) mass spectrometer. It was applied for the analysis of single grains of tourmaline sample for Sr and Pb isotope ratios and fused pellets for trace elements composition for different samples 2- Energy dispersive Scanning Electron microscope used for the analysis of zircon fused pellets and single grains. Rutherford back scattering spectrometer for the analysis of zircon fused pellets to ensure the homogeneity of the fused pellets, and LA-HR-ICP-MS (PLASMAX2) for trace elements in zircon fused pellets. 3- Ion exchange and ion chromatograph GBC for the separation of transition and rare earth elements in geological samples.