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Analytical Services supports Process and Product Research, by providing an
extensive range of analytical techniques including electron optics, plasma analysis,
classical chemical analysis and particle characterization. Analytical data is a key
enabler of bench and mini-plant scale testing of continuous processes and thus,
facilitates product and process development without the expense of full scale pilot
plant testing. Through technology transfer and problem solving, Analytical Services
promotes innovation and competitiveness in applying analytical methods in a reliable,
accurate and timely manner.
Chemical Analysis
The Chemical Analysis group uses a wide variety of analytical techniques ranging
from classical wet chemistry analysis (gravimetric analysis and titrations) to modern
analytical techniques such as chromatography and flame spectrophotometry to provide
quantitative and qualitative elemental and chemical group analysis. Combustion
methods are also commonly used to make carbon, oxygen and sulphur determinations. A
unique service is nickel speciation analysis, which was developed to assist in the
classification of nickel species in airborne particles.
Electron Optics
Electron Optics characterizes ores, process materials and products by X-ray
diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy. The SEM is
used to obtain size and shape measurements of materials in addition to elemental
composition. X-ray diffraction provides information on crystalline phases while
optical microscopy provides insight into grain structure and mineralogical phase
identification.
Particle Characterization
The Particle Characterization lab maintains relationships with customers
throughout the company, continuously identifying, developing and employing methods
for the physical characterization of powders. Particles are characterized with
respect to surface area, thermal properties, particle size and density.
Plasma Analysis
The Plasma Lab offers a wide range of multi-element analytical methods. Many
different sample decomposition procedures such as aqua regia, multi-acid digestions
to peroxide fusions are used. The instrumental analytical techniques used are
inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectroscopy with either optical emission
spectroscopy (OES) or mass spectroscopy (MS) to provide a multi-element analysis. The
advantage of plasma spectroscopy is the ability to provide multi-element analyses for
a wide variety of sample types. ICP-OES offers good sensitivity and superb linearity
to a wide range of elements while ICP-MS is an excellent technique for many trace
elements to extremely low detection limits.
© Vale Inco 2007
Last Updated: November 28, 2007
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