Water chemistry
Physical and chemical analysis of water and aqueous solutions, using UV/Vis molecular absorption spectrophotometry, electrochemical methods and ion chromatography for multiparameter anion analysis.
Room 2.143
Laboratories
The Department of Earth Sciences has facilities and laboratories that support both high-quality research and modern, dynamic teaching. These laboratories can also carry out work for clients outside the University of Minho, for a fee (see requests for analyses and services).
Clays
Concentration of the clay fraction for chemical and XRD analyses. Separation of grain-size fractions down to 0.01 µm.
Room 2.142
X-ray diffraction (XRD)
Acquisition of diffraction patterns of crystalline structures and their computer processing (comparison with ASTM file data, matching, peak decomposition, pattern simulation).
Room 2.140
Spectrometry
Determination of the chemical composition of geological materials and waters, using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry and atomic absorption (graphite furnace) equipment.
Room 2.141
Thin sections and polished surfaces
Preparation of thin and polished sections of rocks and other materials. Preparation of polished surfaces.
Room 1.115
Optical microscopy
Microscope observation with photomicrography and video. Real-time digitisation of microscope images. Phase quantification by image processing and compositional analysis of fluid inclusions.
Room 2.114
Milling
Preparation of milled rock samples for chemical analysis.
Room 1.115
Mineral separation
Production of mineral concentrates by magnetic and density separation.
Room 2.144
Sedimentology
Quantification of the detrital fraction of geological materials down to 0.01 µm, using a MasterSizer 3000 laser particle size analyser and X-ray equipment (Sedigraph).
Room 1.115