Analytical Facilities

Helford Geoscience LLP have expertise in mineralogical and geochemical characterisation using transmitted and reflected light microscopy, cathodo-luminescence, scanning electron microscopy with linked EDS analysis, automated QEMSCAN® SEM-EDS analysis, X-Ray Diffraction, X-Ray Fluorescence, ICP-MS, Stable Isotope Geochemistry and Electron Microprobe analysis.

Examples of analytical studies which Helford Geoscience LLP can provide include:

• Evaluation of geological trace evidence in criminal and civil forensic investigations
• Environmental mineralogy and geochemistry of mine wastes
• Environmental sedimentology
• Characterisation of ore deposits
• Mineralogical deportment in mineral process products
• Petrography and diagenesis of hydrocarbon reservoirs
• Characterisation of soil mineralogy


QEMSCAN® technology

Helford Geoscience LLP have pioneered novel uses in the application of automated SEM-EDS analysis using QEMSCAN® in environmental geoscience, forensic science, archaeology and ore deposit geology.  QEMSCAN® is an automated mineral analysis system that allows the mineralogy or phase composition of any inorganic material to be characterised in detail, based on the rapid acquisition of EDS spectra at a very high resolution.  Data outputs include modal mineralogy, textural and mineralogical associations, particle size, shape and density.

For more information about QEMSCAN® technology see the Links page.