Mineralogical and isotope studies
Applied mineralogy and isotope geology are key fields in studying the bedrock and ore potential, as well as in all stages of mining operations and assessing ore deposits. Mineralogical and isotope studies can also be applied to the characterisation of geological materials and raw materials on a wide scale.
GTK’s research laboratories provide a diverse selection of research services for ore prospecting, the mineral processing industry and all other industries using geomaterials. Our high-quality and high-tech research equipment, and confidential cooperation with our expert personnel provide the perfect innovation framework for our customers.
Methods of mineralisation process research
Understanding the different stages of mineralisation is key in ore prospecting and mining operations for identified ore deposits. Our research laboratories provide a large selection of methods for the identification of mineralogical and geochemical characteristics and ore deposits’ structure, age and mode of formation. We use equipment based on electron optics, X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and X-ray tomography, as well as research equipment using mass spectrometry. Our mineralogical and structural studies provide essential information on ore deposits, composition, and the grain size of both valuable and detrimental minerals that can be used in designing the mineral processing operations. In addition to traditional methods, we use modern technology in sample handling – for example, the selective recovery of valuable materials with high voltage pulses, which has opened up new avenues for process mineralogical research.
Research data for the safe use of geological raw materials
Our research services enable the diverse characterisation of primary and secondary materials, which produces data on their raw material potential, concentrations of valuable materials, and whether they can be used to create new products. In addition to these, we study the concentrations of detrimental materials and any other risk factors related to long-term behaviour, such as the structure and phase composition of different materials.
Characterisation of a large selection of materials
We provide services for the research of a variety of different materials. In addition to primary mineral and ore samples, we provide services for the analysis of sediment, processing waste, metal alloys, tailings, sludge, ash, dust, construction materials and others. We also provide services for water analysis, the stable isotopes of which can be used to determine the hydrologic connections of surface and ground water. Radiogenic isotopes in water can be used to study different geochemical and biochemical reactions.
Research topics
- Ore prospecting
- Mineral industry
- Metallurgy
- Final disposal of nuclear waste
- Geothermal energy
- Utilising secondary raw materials
- Earthworks
- Environmental geology
- Recycling
Service content
- Mineralogical characterisation and raw material potential
- Concentrations of detrimental materials and other risk factors
- Isotope analysis to date mineralisation, identify the origin of fluids and research ore formation-related processes.
- Isotopic and hydro-geochemical studies
- 3D structural studies of materials with X-ray tomography
Your benefits
- You will receive an accurate estimate of the composition of your ore sample and the processes required to refine the sampled ore. This information is necessary for designing ore beneficiation processes and upgrading concentrates.
- The information will enable you to prepare an accurate risk assessment for your operation.
- You will be informed about the by-products resulting from your process and the options for processing them.
