Integral Rock Analysis: a new approach in lithogeochemical exploration with use of X-Ray Fluorescence spectrometry

Abstract

Integral Rock Analysis is a new approach to the acquisition and interpretation of (exploration) geochemical data. An integrated procedure for the rapid and cost-efficient sampling, sample preparation, analysis and statistical treatment of geochemical data is presented. Applicability of the method is discussed on the basis of some examples. The task of sample preparation is significantly shortened by omitting grinding and homogenization. Flat sections of solid rock-samples, sawn of (small) drill cores, are directly analysed by X-Ray Fluorescence spectrometry (XRF). Analytical results are generally in acceptable agreement with those of conventional methods. Conclusions based on the analysis are not adversely influenced by lower analytical accuracy and precision. Moreover, important additional information with respect to small scale features (mineralogy, texture, alteration processes) is obtained as well. Because the method is non-destructive, the same sections can be investigated by microscope, electron microprobe or X-Ray diffraction. This facilitates the correlation of chemical and mineralogical data and the study of small scale features.