Thermo Fisher Scientific application note highlights use of portable XRF analysis in geochemical exploration and delineation of ore zone

Posted by Daniel Gleeson on 8th March 2012

niton.jpgOre deposit investigation showcases high correlation between Thermo Scientific Niton FXL Field X-ray data and lab assays. The company has published a new application note detailing results of an investigation carried out in the Francisco I. Madero zinc-copper-lead-(silver) deposit, which is owned by Peñoles and operated as an underground mine in Zacatecas, central Mexico. High correlation was found between sample data obtained from the Thermo Scientific Niton FXL field X-ray lab and lab assays. This finding, along with identification of geochemically anomalous zones at depth using data from the analyser, indicate the efficiency of the instrument in locating centres of hydrothermal activity and mineralisation.“More than 3,000 of our Thermo Scientific portable XRF analysers are deployed in the global mining markets. The Niton FXL analyser is ideal for advanced exploration and drilling, industrial mineral mining and oil and gas exploration. Additionally, our unique Thermo Scientific TestAll Geo technology automatically determines the correct analytical test mode for rapid analysis of major and minor elements in geological samples. All of our analysers, both portable and handheld, are engineered from the ground up to withstand harsh mining environments, reduce laboratory costs and improve efficiency” said Jon Shein, Senior Director of Marketing Communications for Thermo Scientific Portable Analytical Instruments.

The Thermo Scientific Niton FXL Series field X-ray lab delivers XRF-based elemental analysis with lab-quality testing performance and low levels of detection for up to 40 critical elements. Housed in a compact, portable package, it can be operated virtually anywhere onsite, from the back of a truck, mounted on a tripod or in an on-site lab. It has a rechargeable battery and is designed to operate in dusty, harsh field environments. This elemental analysis lab offers great performance, features and mobility:

  • True lab-quality performance with superior limits of detection
  • Nondestructive with accurate, consistent elemental analysis in minutes – or less
  • Easy to use, with little operator training required
  • Available with 1 mm, 3 mm and 8 mm spot sizes
  • Sample spinner for reducing sample heterogeneity issues due to grain size
  • Closed-beam design requires minimal licensing in most countries

The Niton FXL field X-ray lab is based on Thermo Scientific’s proven, reliable software: there’s no PC required, alleviating the worry of a computer crash and loss of data. Not only does this instrument include advanced batteries that support extended continuous operation on a single charge, it is also free of the need for air filters that can clog if not maintained.