On-site Analysis

Abstract

On-site qualitative analysis helps in the identification of an element, while quantitative analysis provides an idea of the grade. The in situ analysis provides information on the chemical composition of samples in the field in real time or near real time and thus helps in deciphering the rock type and identification as well as quantification of the elements sought, rapidly cutting down the transport time and expense from site to laboratory. This avoids the deterioration of samples, especially water samples, besides offering a cost-saving device as an alternative to costlier laboratory analysis. The immediate availability of data supports decision-making for the further course of exploration. The rapid on-site analysis may be utilized for sample screening, dynamic sampling, grid mapping and relative elemental abundance determination. Robust QA and QC planning may be achieved by a suitable combination of field and lab data. Portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) are most commonly used on site analytical techniques due to their ease of application and portability.