C9057 Geological sample preparation for analysis

Faculty of Science
Spring 2025
Extent and Intensity
1/0/0. 1 credit(s) (plus extra credits for completion). Recommended Type of Completion: zk (examination). Other types of completion: z (credit).
In-person direct teaching
Teacher(s)
doc. Mgr. Tomáš Vaculovič, Ph.D. (lecturer)
Guaranteed by
doc. Mgr. Karel Novotný, Ph.D.
Department of Chemistry – Chemistry Section – Faculty of Science
Supplier department: Department of Chemistry – Chemistry Section – Faculty of Science
Prerequisites
Knowledge of chemistry at the level of a basic lecture. Knowledge of geology and mineralogy at the level of a basic lecture.
Course Enrolment Limitations
The course is offered to students of any study field.
Course objectives
The student will acquire basic knowledge about sample collection and its preparation for various types of analysis (silicate analysis, local microanalysis, etc.). They will learn the theoretical foundations of decomposition in open and closed systems, microwave decomposition, melting and preparation of pearls for XRF and laser ablation.
Learning outcomes
The student will master the theoretical foundations of the problem of decomposition of geological samples of various types in open and closed systems, during microwave decomposition, and during melting and preparation of pearls for XRF and laser ablation. The practical preparation of a real sample will also be included.
Syllabus
  • 1. Sampling, preservation and storage of samples. 2. Classification of analytical samples. Classification of decomposition procedures - physical methods, chemical methods. 3. Classification of decomposition agents - acids, hydroxides, fluxes, auxiliary chemicals. 4. Wet and dry decomposition, open and closed systems. Melting with acidic and basic fluxes. 5. Decomposition supported by microwave radiation, microwave heating of liquids and solids. 6. Selection of appropriate decomposition procedures according to the sample matrix, typical examples (water analysis, silicate analysis, ore analysis). 7. Specific requirements of various analytical techniques for sample preparation (solution analysis ICP OES/MS, AAS, analysis of solid samples - laser ablation, XRF, XRD, EMPA, Raman spectroscopy). 8. A practical example of the decomposition of a geological sample in the laboratory.
Teaching methods
Lectures and final discussion. A practical example of decomposition in the laboratory.
Assessment methods
Final oral examination - attendance or distance form
Language of instruction
Czech
Further comments (probably available only in Czech)
The course is taught annually.
Teacher's information
For students interested in the preparation and decomposition of specific types of samples (for example, according to the topics of their diploma or dissertation), it is possible to devote part of the lectures to these types of samples. As part of the demonstration of decomposition techniques in the laboratory, it will be welcome if the student brings his sample(s).
The course is also listed under the following terms Spring 2020, Spring 2021, Spring 2022, Spring 2023, Spring 2024.
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  • Permalink: https://is.muni.cz/course/sci/spring2025/C9057