Laser ablation elemental and isotopic microanalytical methods for minerals and fluid and melt inclusions: development and applications

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Microanalysis using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) has revolutionized the geosciences over the past 20 years. Continual improvements have been made in instrumentation and applications over this period; however, challenges remain in obtaining routine, fully quantitative, matrix-independent LA-ICP-MS data. This research program will determine the benefits of newly developed LA-ICP-MS instrumentation for the investigation of economically and strategically important 'high-technology' (i.e., high field strength and platinum group element) mineral deposits. The research program will produce: 1) improvements in our understanding of laser/matter interactions, which are critical to conducting fully quantitative LA-ICP-MS analyses, 2) novel or modified elemental and isotopic microanalytical procedures that will improve data quality relative to previous LA-ICP-MS systems and methods, and 3) new information that is critical to determining the role of hydrothermal processes in the formation of these important mineral deposits, for which data are presently largely non-existent. The research output will be important to: 1) a growing body of international researchers interested in using LA-ICP-MS microanalytical procedures and applications, and 2) mineral deposit researchers and exploration geoscientists interested in improving exploration and development strategies for these mineral deposits. Our lab has been a world leader in the development and application of short pulse width LA-ICP-MS for geoscience and environmental applications. The unique instrumentation, analytical methods, and practical applications research that will result from this program will contribute to Canadian researchers continuing their leadership role in the development and application of LA-ICP-MS.