Intertek Minerals: Geochemistry Services

Intertek Minerals
Geochemistry Services
Selection of Methods
The intended end use of analytical data is the primary consideration when selecting
the most appropriate analytical methods. Due to a wide range of applications, from
greenfields exploration through to resource definition and production, key criteria to be
considered include; accuracy and precision, detection limits, expected concentration of
the target element(s), sample matrix and budget.
Sample preparation is a vital stage in the analytical process. Correct preparation
procedures allow representative sub-sampling which is the foundation of quality analysis.
The choice of sample dissolution procedure, to get a sample into a form amenable to
instrumental analysis, is important, and each has its own advantages and limitations.
Consideration should be given to whether a partial or complete decomposition is
required for each application when choosing between the various digestion techniques.
For greenfields exploration, various multi-element options are available. Where gold
is a target element for soil and stream sediment surveys, an aqua regia digestion and
a multi-element analysis by ICP-MS and ICP-OES is useful as both gold and a range of
other elements can be determined cost effectively using the same digest. Aqua regia will
digest gold and chalcophile elements in particular, however elements associated with
silicates and more refractory minerals may only be partially digested. Four acid digestions
will dissolve all but the most refractory minerals, with total analyses for most elements. If
gold is not required, the four acid digestion and multi-element analysis is recommended
for exploration work.
For detecting buried mineralisation, partial leaches on soils are an effective tool. Similarly,
plant tissue or groundwater, which can be sampled easily and cheaply, can be analysed
in conjunction with, or as an alternative to, conventional media. Orientation surveys are
particularly important when using these techniques and it is advisable to discuss your
needs with us in advance.
Precious metals are best analysed by fire assay, with lead collection used to analyse Au,
Pt and Pd, whereas nickel sulphide collection is used for the full suite of platinum group
elements (PGE).
Complete Lithogeochemistry packages are available using a combination of methods to
analyse the widest range of elements. Fusion ICP-MS is best for the analysis of REE and
HFSE as the host minerals are often refractory. Lithium borate fusion and either XRF or
ICP-OES are the best methods for whole rock analyses.
We encourage clients to discuss their projects with us and where possible visit the
laboratories to assist with selection of the most appropriate analytical solutions for the
particular applications.
Sample Preparation
The production of a homogeneous sub-sample, representative of the material submitted
to the laboratory is the primary purpose of sample preparation. Correct preparation is
critical to obtaining meaningful analytical results. The selection of the specific sample
preparation procedures will depend on the type and size of the sample, the mineralogy
as well as the client’s analytical and budgetary requirements.
Close and ongoing consultation with the laboratory will ensure that optimal sample
preparation techniques are employed thus maximising the value added in the
analytical process.
Precious Metals
A diverse range of precious metals techniques are available for applications ranging from
grassroots exploration, where sub ppb sensitivities are required, to accurate resource
estimation and grade control. For gold determination lead collection fire assay remains
the classic method, however, aqua regia digestion, accelerated cyanide leach and BLEG
are other options that are available for specific purposes. Platinum and palladium can
also be detected using some of these methods. The full suite of platinum group elements
(PGE) can only be determined by nickel sulphide collection fire assay.
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Exploration Geochemistry
The advent of sensitive, rapid throughput instrumentation such as ICP-OES and ICP-MS used to
complement one another has revolutionised exploration geochemistry in the last two decades.
Large multi-element packages with detection limits commensurate with the crustal abundances
of the analytes are available for exploration purposes at affordable prices. A variety of digests
are offered which include multi-purpose aqua regia and four acid “total” digests along with
specialised biogeochemical and partial leach digests specifically for greenfields exploration.
Analytical options include:
• Au + Multi-Elements by Aqua Regia Digestion • TerraLeach™ Partial Digest Geochemistry
• Multi-Elements by Four Acid Digestion • Biogeochemistry
Biogeochemistry
Plants can be sophisticated geochemical samplers and the analysis of plant tissue can be used
as a guide to the underlying geology, which may be particularly useful in areas of transported
cover. Samples are easy and cheap to collect and have a low environmental impact. The
levels of metals in plant tissues are low, compared with soil, so care must be taken not to
contaminate the samples. Sites away from human activity or its effects are preferred. All
plant tissue (foliage, twigs, bark, flowers, seeds, litter) can be analysed, however, foliage and
bark often provide the strongest geochemical signature. An orientation study to determine
the most useful species and tissue type to sample is recommended.
TerraLeachTM Partial Digest Geochemistry

Partial digests are carried out on soil media to detect buried ore bodies in areas where
conventional geochemistry may not work. Buried ore bodies may release trace levels of
metals into groundwater which are inferred to travel vertically and accumulate within the
top portion of the soil profile where they add to the background metal concentrations.
Partial digests tend to be efficient for certain element suites and specific element species.
Soil type and digestion method must therefore be matched to recover targeted elements.
Detection limits may vary as a consequence of the sample media. Before commencing
any new partial digest program, we recommend consultation with our geochemist.
An orientation study to help select the optimum sample media and digest technique
is recommended.
Ores and Commodities

The methods offered for Ores and Commodities are typically used in advanced
exploration and for the evaluation of specific targets. The diverse suite of methods
offered, include those used for base metal and industrial mineral resource estimation
as well as fusion methods useful for characterisation of geological samples in late stage
exploration programs where total dissolution of the samples is required.
Many techniques are suitable for trade related “shipment” analyses and may be offered
separately or in conjunction with our surveying and sampling services.
Analytical options and commodities include:
• Advanced Exploration • Nickel Laterite Ore
• Ores and High Grade Materials • Manganese Ore
• Base Metals • Uranium
• Iron Ore, including Davis Tube Recovery • Rare Earth Elements
• Aluminium Ore • Industrial Minerals
• Chromite Ore • Refractory Minerals
Lithogeochemistry
Lithogeochemical studies require the full characterisation of rock samples. Many applications
require the accurate analysis of both mobile and immobile elements that can assist in
identifying precursor rock types and quantification of any geological processes that may
have affected them. Lithogeochemistry is also useful for geochemical fingerprinting,
quantification of crystal fractionation, identifying regolith processes and for stratigraphic
correlation. Several analytical techniques are used including both fusion and four acid digests
with XRF, ICP-OES and ICP-MS finishes. These methods produce data of the highest quality
that is suitable for exploration, research, publication and geochemical modelling purposes.
Intertek is the leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide. From auditing and inspection, to testing, training,
advisory, quality assurance and certification, Intertek adds value to customers’ products, processes and assets. With a network
of more than 1,000 laboratories and offices and over 36,000 people in more than 100 countries, Intertek supports companies’
success in a global marketplace. Intertek helps its customers to meet end users’ expectations for safety, sustainability,
performance, integrity and desirability in virtually any market worldwide.
Intertek’s network of Mineral laboratory facilities offer a wide range of services, including:
• Sample Preparation • Environmental Services
• Fire Assay and Precious Metal Analysis • Mine-Site Laboratories
• Robotic and Automated Laboratory Systems • Consulting Services
• Coal Testing and Inspections • Minerals Inspections
• Exploration Geochemistry • Minerals Processing
Testing &
Inspection Services
Sample Preparation
Mineral Laboratory
/ Inspection
Coal Laboratory
/ Inspection
For more information, please contact us:

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15 Davison Street, A&A Complex Ground Floor Warehouse 7,
Maddington, Perth, Block B Philcrest 1 Compound,
Western Australia, 6109 Osu Badu Street, Cupang, Muntinlupa 1772
T: +61 8 9251 8100 Airport Residential Philippines
E: [email protected] Accra, Ghana T: +63 2 842 3464
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Rua Groelândia, 2 South Africa
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Nova Lima – MG, Brazil, JI. Raya Bogor KM 28, Jet Park
CEP:34000-000 Jakarta 13710 Johannesburg
T: +55 31 3581 8854 Indonesia Gauteng, 1459
E: fernando,[email protected] T: +62 21 2938 4454 T: +27 11 552 8149
E: [email protected] E: [email protected]
Canada
15 – 3771 North Fraser Way, Papua New Guinea USA
Burnaby, British Columbia, PO Box 2464 1211 Belgrove,
V5J 5G5 Voco Point Road St Louis, MO, 63137
T: +1 604 454 9011 Lae Morobe Province T: +1 313 215 0499
E: [email protected] Papua New Guinea E: [email protected]
T: +675 472 8113
China E: [email protected]
2nd Floor, Building No 1
Comalong Industrial Park
889 Yi Shan Rd, Shanghai.
200233, China
T: +86 21 6127 6288
E: [email protected]
www.intertek.com

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Ores and Commodities

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