Micro X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer

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An in-depth understanding of the complex mineral-water interaction processes in the upper earth's crust and a predictability of the environmental behavior of elements requires the elucidation of individual reaction mechanisms at the fluid/solid interface. The quantitative assessment of these mechanisms is a central research goal of the Applied Geochemistry Group at TU Berlin. This research approach in turn requires the use of modern spectroscopic and microscopic methods. In addition to conventional laboratory methods, state-of-the-art synchrotron-based methods are also used.Complementary to the existing analytical infrastructure of the TU Berlin, a laboratory for microphase analysis will be set up, which offers the possibilities to quantitatively characterize mineral phases and their chemical composition, including trace elements and isotope signatures in high spatial resolution with low detection limits and to determine trace element contents of fluids. The laboratory should consist of three main components:1) High-performance X-ray diffractometry with micro diffraction (μXRD) that identifies mineral phases both in powder samples and spatially resolved on polished mineral/rock sections.2) A powerful X-ray fluorescence analysis with μ-focus (μXRF), with which it is possible to quantify the chemical composition of geomaterials nondestructively and in high spatial resolution.3) A powerful Laser ICP Mass Spectrometer (LA-ICP-MS), which enables a high-resolution trace element analysis of geomaterials, determines isotope ratios of selected elements and can be used for the trace element analysis of water samples.Future research projects in which the micro techniques will be used focus on mineral/water interaction processes in the following areas: (i) geothermal energy systems, (ii) transport, transformation and retention of pollutants in the so-called critical zone, (iii) paleoclimate reconstruction.