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Fluid inclusions are tiny liquid bubbles trapped within minerals, providing insights into the mineral’s formation and geological history. Found in both terrestrial and extraterrestrial samples, these inclusions can be aqueous or contain organic materials.
SIMS technology for analyzing rock histories
Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS) is a powerful technique to analyze the elemental and isotopic composition of rocks. For small fluid inclusions, NanoSIMS-HR offers high-resolution analysis, combined with cryogenic capabilities preventing evaporation during examination.
Insights from cryogenic NanoSIMS-HR analysis
Fluid inclusions are located and marked before analysis. Using a cryogenic stage at -140°C, samples are sputtered and ion images are obtained. This method allows for precise measurement of isotopic ratios. At cold temperatures, fluid inclusions remain solid, enabling precise analysis. The process reveals the heterogeneity of inclusions and provides accurate δD and δ18O measurements, enhancing our understanding of geological processes.
Advancing geological analysis
The NanoSIMS-HR with a cryogenic stage enables previously impossible analyses of the isotopic and elemental composition of fluids, offering new insights into mineral formation and challenging existing geological models.
Read the full application note:
Cryogenic application of NanoSIMS-HR: Isotopic composition of fluid inclusions in quartz to learn more!
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