Chemical diagenesis of carbonates in thin-sections: Ion microprobe as a trace element tool

Ján Veizer*, R. W. Hinton, R. N. Clayton, Abraham Lerman

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

18 Scopus citations

Abstract

Ion microprobe is a potential tool for determination of trace-element concentrations directly in thin-sections. Such an approach enables direct correlation of chemistry with microtextural features. We demonstrate the utility of this instrument for Sr, Mn, Fe and Mg in calcites and dolomites. At this stage, the sensitivity is ~10 ppm and the reproducibility is usually better than 15 relative percent. The analyzed spots are ~20 μ. We believe that with more homogeneous standards at low concentrtion levels, the technique is potentially capable of sensitivity in the ppb-ppm ranges. Fe may prove an exeption from this prediction. The technique may also prove suitable for determination of Na. Ion microprobe can serve as a valuable tool for diagenetic and petrological studies of carbonates. At this stage, its major disadvantage is the poor optical resolution in transmitted light.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)225-237
Number of pages13
JournalChemical Geology
Volume64
Issue number3-4
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 30 1987

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Geology
  • Geochemistry and Petrology

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