What the facility does
Microanalysis of Earth materials, specializing in precious metals.
Areas of expertise
The lab uses a unique combination of state-of-the-art microanalytical tools to analyze trapped ore fluids in precious-metal deposits with the aim of developing novel exploration criteria to locate hidden mineral resources in Canada.
Research services
- Mineral and fluid inclusion microanalysis
- Microthermometry
- Infrared and ultraviolet microscopy
- Geological modeling
- Trace-element analysis
Sectors of application
- Energy
- Mining, minerals and metals
Specialized labs and equipment
| Equipment | Function |
|---|---|
| Melt inclusion microscope | Analysis of trapped melt inclusions in minerals up to 1500oC |
| UV/VIS fluid inclusion microscope | Analysis of trapped fluid inclusions in minerals up to 600oC |
| Infrared fluid inclusion microscope | Analysis of trapped fluid inclusions in opaque minerals up to 600oC |
| Hydroseparator | Separation of rare minerals from rocks |
| Hydrothermal autoclave | Simulation of deep Earth processes |
| Fluid inclusion gas chromatograph | Analysis of volatiles in fluid inclusions |
| Melt inclusion homogenization furnace | Preparation of samples for analysis |
Private and public sector research partners
- Vale Canada
- KGHM International
- Terrane Metals Corp.
- NewGold Incorporated
- Nova Scotia Research and Innovation Trust
- Government of Canada
- Geoscience Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia Museum of Natural History
- Impala Platinum
- Laurentian University
- University of Toronto