We currently operate a Cameca SX100 microprobe which arrived in September 1995. It operates from a SUN workstation running Solaris 2 and is driven with proprietary software developed by Cameca. Modules include Qualitative Analysis, Quantitative Analysis and Image Capture (including X-ray mapping). The instrument is calibrated for a wide range of elements including F, Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Rb, Sr, Y,Zr, Nb, Mo, Cd, Sn, Sb, Cs, Ba, La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Hf, Ta, W, Pb, Bi, Th and U.
Most recent work has focused on feature relocation. Several techniques have been evaluated to locate minerals in polished thin sections prior to microprobe analysis. The techniques under consideration include beta autoradiography, X-ray excited optical luminescence and uv excited optical luminescence. Specific mineral(s) respond to each of these techniques enabling their rapid relocation prior to probe analysis. This work has resulted in the development of a computer-based relocation procedure in which a digital image of the sample is used as a 'map' to relocate visible features on the sample mounted on the microprobe specimen stage.
Much of the work is on silicate, oxide and sulphide minerals and is undertaken by our PhD students, but we welcome enquiries from academic and industrial users as either commercial or collaborative ventures.
Contact Information
Lead Academic - Dr Andy Tindle
Tel: +44 (0)1908 653732 (office), +44 (0)1908 653612 (Microprobe lab)