Zircon selection test

Zircon selection test is a test method used to determine the chemical composition and Mineralogy characteristics of zircon. Zircon is a mineral widely existing on the surface of the earth. It has been widely used in geology, Mineralogy, geochemistry, environmental science and other fields. Zircon selection test is a very important technical means, which can help us better understand the evolution history and geochemical cycle process of the earth. This article will introduce the operating steps and related knowledge of the zirconium selection test.

Operation steps for selecting zircon test

The operational steps for selecting zircon for testing generally include sample preparation, zircon separation, zircon dating, and zircon chemical composition analysis. Below, we will introduce the specific operation methods of these steps separately.

1. Sample preparation

Sample preparation is the first step in selecting zircon for testing. Before conducting sample preparation, it is necessary to select the sample first. Generally speaking, the zircon test is applicable to rock and sediment samples containing zircon. The specific steps for sample preparation are as follows:

(1) Sample crushing: Use tools such as a hammer or mortar to break the sample into small particles.

(2) Remove impurities: Remove impurities from the sample, which can be removed using a magnet or manually.

(3) Choose particle size: Choose the appropriate particle size, generally speaking, a particle size between 100 and 200 mesh is more suitable.

2. Zircon separation

Zircon separation is the Committed step of zircon selection test. Before conducting zircon separation, it is necessary to first select a suitable separation method. The commonly used methods for separating zircon include heavy liquid separation, magnetic separation, and electromagnetic separation. Below, we will take heavy liquid separation as an example to introduce the specific steps of zircon separation.

(1) Heavy liquid separation: put the sample particles into the heavy liquid, and separate the zircon according to the density difference of zircon.

(2) Cleaning zircon: Clean the separated zircon with deionized water and alcohol to remove residual heavy liquid.

(3) Drying zircon: Place the cleaned zircon in a dryer for drying.

3. Zircon dating

Zircon dating is the core content of zircon selection experiments. Before conducting zircon dating, it is necessary to first select a suitable dating method. The commonly used zircon dating methods include U-Pb dating and Lu-Hf dating. Below, we will take U-Pb dating as an example to introduce the specific steps of zircon dating.

(1) Choose the appropriate standard: Choose the appropriate zircon standard for calibration.

(2) Preparation of samples: Make thin sheets of separated zircon.

(3) Measurement: Use equipment such as a mass spectrometer to measure zircon.

(4) Data processing: Process the measurement data to obtain the age of zircon.

4. Chemical composition analysis of zircon

Chemical composition analysis of zircon is another important aspect of zircon selection experiments. Before conducting chemical composition analysis of zircon, it is necessary to first select a suitable analysis method. The commonly used methods for analyzing the chemical composition of zircon include microanalysis, LA-ICP-MS analysis, and SIMS analysis. Below, we will take micro zone analysis as an example to introduce the specific steps of zircon chemical composition analysis.

(1) Sample preparation: Make thin slices of the separated zircon.

(2) Measurement: use Scanning electron microscope and other equipment to measure zircon.

(3) Data processing: Process measurement data to obtain the chemical composition of zircon.

conclusion

Zircon selection test is a very important technical means, which can help us better understand the evolution history and geochemical cycle process of the earth. In the process of conducting zircon selection experiments, attention should be paid to various steps such as sample preparation, zircon separation, zircon dating, and zircon chemical composition analysis to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data. At the same time, we also need to continuously explore and improve the methods and techniques of zircon selection experiments to provide more accurate and in-depth data support for Earth science research.