Microanalysis of minerals by laser ablation ICPMS and SIRMS

Abstract

Due to permanent re-equilibration processes that minerals undergo during dynamic processes within the earth, minerals build up concentration profiles – mainly from rim to core – which are ideal indicators of the geological processes the rocks have suffered. To understand these fingerprints of geological processes micro-analytical facilities are required that allow measurement of the isotopic and chemical composition of spot sizes from about 1 μm to 1 mm at concentration levels in the ng/g-range. Laser ablation techniques combined with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) and stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry (SIRMS) recently have achieved these demands. This contribution gives an example about their potential in establishing concentration gradients within minerals for geological questions.