Our aim is to offer niche analytical products that are unavailable at similar laboratories in much larger Canadian departments. At the core of our facility is a mass spectrometer (Thermo-Fisher XSeriesII inductively coupled plasma quadrupole mass spectrometer, ICP-MS).

It is fed with solutions prepared in an ultra-clean laboratory for low detection limit, high precision analysis. Rocks and minerals are prepared for digestion in the department’s rock crushing and mineral separation facilities. We offer full mineral separation services in dedicated clean space. For carbonate and other soft samples, we also offer micro-drilling with a NewWave Research MicroMill.

We also undertake in situ analysis. For this purpose, material is ablated with an ultra-violet laser beam (from a NewWave Research 213nm solid state laser probe).

We have developed chemical separation methods for U-Th-Pb and Sm/Nd isotope work. We are in partnership with the Isotope Geochemistry and Geochronology Research Centre at Carleton University for TIMS analyses of these separates.

Laser Ablation Analysis

Solution Analyses

U/Pb Zircon Geochronology

Pb Isotope Analysis

Trace Element Mapping

We are constantly developing new applications of geochemical fingerprinting. See below for some reprints of our more recent publications.

i) Long term isotope ratio stability observations: Download PDF

ii) First successful determination of ultra-low W contents in peridotites: Download PDF

iii) First systematic study of boron geochemistry in Archean felsic magmas: Download PDF

iv) First in situ metal determination in microbial carbonate Download PDF

v) In situ sulfur isotope data reveal complexity of ancient sulfur cycle Download PDF