Skip to main content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Analytical Chemistry

Active
By Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center September 30, 2022

The USGS Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to conduct their research. The Analytical Chemistry project facilitates the ability of USGS scientists to obtain needed analyses.

Scientific Issue and Relevance

Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientific mission area scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to carry out their research. This project facilitates the ability of the scientific staff to obtain these analyses. The Mineral Resources Program projects require several functions for chemistry to be conducted across theme boundaries. Most of these single efforts are not large enough to support the instrumentation or the expertise needed to work on these tasks. However, when all of the Program's science is considered, then a chemistry support function that combines these efforts results in a cost efficient and necessary endeavor.

Methods to Address Issue

The Analytical Chemistry Project combines and coordinates the chemistry functions that are necessary for research and assessment projects within the Mineral Resources Program.  Our project is responsible for:

  • administering the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); the system used to track samples and manage in-house and contract analytical data;
  • physically preparing samples submitted for analysis;
  • validating Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center in-house analytical techniques;
  • monitoring contract chemistry data quality, validating contract chemistry analytical results, and disseminating analytical results to staff scientists;
  • maintaining and growing the National Geochemical Sample Archive.

Recurring efforts include:

  • offering a mechanism to prepare samples;
  • maintaining equipment and methods of analysis for in-house analytical chemistry work;
  • contracting routine chemical requests to an outside laboratory;
  • providing data quality control for both in-house and contract generated data.

Long term efforts include continued support to the Mineral Resources Program by providing these services and modifying the analytical methods or administrative procedures to better meet the needs of the scientists.

Sample and Data Management: We perform all the necessary functions relating to the receipt, processing, preparation, data tracking, quality control, and archiving of samples submitted for chemical analyses. These functions are performed for both in-house and contract laboratory analyses. Sample Control processes on average 15,000-20,000 samples annually. We maintain the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), contract out routine analytical chemistry functions, perform quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) function for all chemical analyses and maintain database for both contract and in-house chemistry, perform physical preparation of samples submitted for chemical analysis. We also operate and maintain the USGS National Geochemical Sample Archive, inventory, and retrieval of previously analyzed powdered geochemical materials.

azurite and malachite micrograph
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Azurite-Malachite Intergrowths. Transmitted light micrograph, showing tabular crystals of azurite partially altered to green malachite around void areas. Cover image from USGS Scientific Investigations Report 2011-5211.

Mineral Separation: We provide Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center scientists with the expertise, equipment, and methods needed to deconstruct rocks and enlarge understanding of geologic processes by separating and concentrating mineral constituents using water tables, heavy liquids, magnets, and microscopes; identifying and quantifying minerals using staining methods and X-ray diffraction, measuring various physical properties of whole rock including density, magnetic susceptibility, and solubility.

X-Ray Fluorescence: We provide high precision determinations of 10 major rock-forming elements as oxides and the determination of minor and trace elements in solid geologic materials using wavelength dispersive x-ray fluorescence. The accuracy achievable using the wavelength dispersive x-ray fluorescence technique for the determination of major elements as oxides is unsurpassed by any other instrumental technique. Samples are prepared and analyzed at our laboratory facility.

Denver Mineralogy Lab: We will contine method development for sample preparation for X-ray diffraction, investigating and implementing advanced X-ray diffraction analyses, and evaluating and interpretating X-ray diffraction scans.

In-House Chemistry Support Services: We provide routine single element and common laboratory support services. Analyses performed include: dissolved organic carbon and percent ash. We also perform single element analyses support for cross checking results from the contract laboratory. In addition to housing the single element analytical capability we also provide common laboratory support services such as the purchase of liquefied and compressed gases, the maintenance and repair of laboratory instrumentation, and the purchase of laboratory supplies such as acids, solvents, glassware, etc.

Contract Chemistry: We monitor the ongoing contract with AGAT Laboratories, Mississauga, Canada, for routine chemical analyses. Our objective is to ensure that all aspects of the contract are executed within the limits established in the statement of work and all performance criteria are met. 

References and Methods 

USGS In-House Methods Reference: Taggart, J.E., 2002, Analytical methods for chemical analysis of geologic and other materials, U.S. Geological Survey: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 02-223, https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2002/ofr-02-0223/.

Analytical Contract Laboratory Method Summaries: View all 40 method summaries in one document. [.docx, 70 KB]

  1. Sample Preparation [.docx, 16 KB] 
  2. Total Sulfur [.docx, 7 KB]
  3. Total Carbon [.docx, 7 KB]
  4. Carbonate Carbon (Inorganic Carbon) [.docx, 16 KB]
  5. Mercury (Hg) [.docx, 16 KB]
  6. Arsenic (As) [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  7. Antimony (Sb) [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  8. Selenium (Se) [.docx, 16 KB]
  9. Fluoride (F) [.docx, 7 KB]
  10. Chloride (Cl) [.docx, 16 KB]
  11. Ferrous Oxide (FeO) [.docx, 16 KB]
  12. Essential and Non-Essential Water [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  13. Gold (Au) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay [.docx, 16 KB]
  14. Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd) and Platinum (Pt) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay [.docx, 8 KB]
  15. Major Elements by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) [.docx, 17 KB]
  16. Major Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), Lithium Metaborate Fusion (ICP-16) [.docx, 9 KB]
  17. Forty-Nine Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-OES-MS), Multi-Acid Digestion (ICP-49) [.docx, 10 KB]
  18. Sixty Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy-Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-OES-MS), Sodium Peroxide Fusion (ICP-60) [.docx, 10 KB]
  19. High Concentration Rare Earth Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-MS), Sodium Peroxide Fusion [.docx, 9 KB]
  20. Multi-Acid Digestion with Fusion of Residue by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-OES-MS) [.docx, 18 KB]
  21. Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) [.docx, 17.2 KB]
  22. Platinum Group Elements by Nickel Sulfide Fire Assay and Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) [.docx, 8 KB]
  23. Trace Level Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd) and Platinum (Pt) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) [.docx, 17 KB]
  24. Ore Grade Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd) and Platinum (Pt) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) [.docx, 16.6 KB]
  25. Base Metals by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  26. Trace Elements by Pressed Pellet X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) [.docx, 16.4 KB]
  27. Rare Earth Elements by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) [.docx, 17 KB]
  28. High Concentration Mercury (Hg) in Solid Samples [.docx, 16 KB]
  29. Microwave Digestion [.docx, 18 KB]
  30. Sequential Extraction Analysis - 5 Stages [.docx, 18 KB]
  31. Deionized Water Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  32. Ammonium Acetate Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  33. Cold Hydroxylamine Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  34. Hot Hydroxylamine Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  35. Sodium Pyrophosphate Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  36. Aqua Regia Digestion [.docx, 18 KB]
  37. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-OES-MS) Water [.docx, 18 KB]
  38. Precious Metals in Water [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  39. Trace Levels in Water [.docx, 17.6 KB]
  40. Single Elements in Water [.docx, 16.5 KB]

 

Return to Mineral Resources Program | Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Related USGS projects.

link
data portal screenshot

National Geochemical Database

The National Geochemical Database project assembles, reformats, corrects, and archives historical data obtained from the geochemical analysis of millions of geologic samples collected for USGS studies. These data, representing hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of USGS research, are provided to USGS researchers; other Federal agencies; State Geological Surveys and Environmental Protection...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
link

National Geochemical Database

The National Geochemical Database project assembles, reformats, corrects, and archives historical data obtained from the geochemical analysis of millions of geologic samples collected for USGS studies. These data, representing hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of USGS research, are provided to USGS researchers; other Federal agencies; State Geological Surveys and Environmental Protection...
Learn More
link
Earth MRI data and applications graphic

Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.
By
Mineral Resources Program
link

Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.
Learn More

Below are data releases associated with this project.

Geochemical data generated by projects funded by the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (ver. 10.0, June 2024)

The geochemical data included here were generated as part of the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI), which was developed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in response to a Federal directive calling on various Federal agencies to address potential vulnerabilities in the Nation’s supply of critical mineral resources. Earth MRI is a partnership between the USGS, State Geological Survey
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah

Beginning in November of 2015, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) undertook a project to reanalyze approximately 60,000 archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) project from selected areas in Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. A small amount (approximately 0.
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Reanalysis of Additional Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment Samples from Idaho and Montana

In December of 2018, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) signed a Technical Assistance Agreement with a third party to reanalyze 2,324 archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) project from selected areas in Idaho and Montana. A small amount (approximately 0.25 grams [g]) of sieved less than
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Global Geochemical Database for Critical Minerals in Archived Mine Samples

The Critical Minerals in Archived Mine Samples Database (CMDB) contains chemistry and geologic information for historic ore and ore-related rock samples from mineral deposits in the United States. In addition, the database contains samples from archetypal deposits from 27 other countries in North America, South America, Asia, Africa and Europe. Samples were obtained from archived ore collections u
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Alaska

Selected archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) program, were reanalyzed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) as part of a NURE-HSSR Reanalysis project (Smith and others, 2018). A small amount (approximately 0.25 grams [g]) of sieved less than 75-micron sample material was retrieved from
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Below are publications associated with this project.

Magnetic and gravity gradiometry framework for Mesoproterozoic iron oxide-apatite and iron oxide-copper-gold deposits, southeast Missouri, USA

High-resolution airborne magnetic and gravity gradiometry data provide the geophysical framework for evaluating the exploration potential of hidden iron oxide deposits in Mesoproterozoic basement rocks of southeast Missouri. The data are used to calculate mineral prospectivity for iron oxide-apatite (IOA) ± rare earth element (REE) and iron oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) deposits. Results delineate the
Authors
Anne E. McCafferty, Jeffrey Phillips, Rhonda L. Driscoll
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

A process for reducing rocks and concentrating heavy minerals

To obtain minerals suitable for age-dating and other analyses, it is necessary to first reduce the mineral-bearing rock to a fine, sand-like consistency. Reducing whole rock requires crushing, grinding, and sieving. Ideally, the reduced material should range in size from 80- to 270-mesh (an opening between wires in a sieve). The openings in an 80-mesh sieve are equal to 0.007 inches, 0.177 millime
Authors
Thomas R. Strong, Rhonda L. Driscoll
By
Energy and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Assessment of the geoavailability of trace elements from selected zinc minerals

This assessment focused on five zinc-bearing minerals. The minerals were subjected to a number of analyses including quantitative X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, leaching tests, and bioaccessibility and toxicity studies. Like a previous comprehensive assessment of five copper-bearing minerals, the purpose of this assessment was to obtain structural and chemical information and to characteri
Authors
Rhonda L. Driscoll, Phillip L. Hageman, William Benzel, Sharon F. Diehl, Suzette Morman, LaDonna M. Choate, Heather Lowers
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Assessment of the geoavailability of trace elements from minerals in mine wastes: analytical techniques and assessment of selected copper minerals

In this study, four randomly selected copper-bearing minerals were examined—azurite, malachite, bornite, and chalcopyrite. The objectives were to examine and enumerate the crystalline and chemical properties of each of the minerals, to determine which, if any, of the Cu-bearing minerals might adversely affect systems biota, and to provide a multi-procedure reference. Laboratory work included use o
Authors
Rhonda Driscoll, Phillip L. Hageman, William Benzel, Sharon F. Diehl, David T. Adams, Suzette Morman, LaDonna M. Choate
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

From Projectile Points to Microprocessors - The Influence of Some Industrial Minerals

In the language of economic geology, Earth materials are classified as metallic ores, fuel minerals, gemstones, and industrial minerals. Most people know that metallic ores yield shiny, conductive, ductile elements such as copper, iron, or gold. Most understand that energy-producing coals constitute a fuel mineral. Likewise, dazzling rubies and rare sapphires are universally recognized as gemstone
Authors
Rhonda Driscoll

Methods for synthesis of some jarosites

Experimental procedures in this report summarize attempts to synthesize potassium-, hydronium-, sodium-, and mixed-composition (hydronium-bearing) jarosites. After experimentation, some acceptable combinations of chemical and physical factors were found to routinely synthesize chemically different jarosites, which were used as part of a characterization study of some natural and synthetic jarosite
Authors
Rhonda Driscoll, Reinhard Leinz
By
Water Resources Mission Area

The USGS Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to conduct their research. The Analytical Chemistry project facilitates the ability of USGS scientists to obtain needed analyses.

Scientific Issue and Relevance

Mineral Resources Program and other USGS scientific mission area scientists need specialized routine analysis in order to carry out their research. This project facilitates the ability of the scientific staff to obtain these analyses. The Mineral Resources Program projects require several functions for chemistry to be conducted across theme boundaries. Most of these single efforts are not large enough to support the instrumentation or the expertise needed to work on these tasks. However, when all of the Program's science is considered, then a chemistry support function that combines these efforts results in a cost efficient and necessary endeavor.

Methods to Address Issue

The Analytical Chemistry Project combines and coordinates the chemistry functions that are necessary for research and assessment projects within the Mineral Resources Program.  Our project is responsible for:

  • administering the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS); the system used to track samples and manage in-house and contract analytical data;
  • physically preparing samples submitted for analysis;
  • validating Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center in-house analytical techniques;
  • monitoring contract chemistry data quality, validating contract chemistry analytical results, and disseminating analytical results to staff scientists;
  • maintaining and growing the National Geochemical Sample Archive.

Recurring efforts include:

  • offering a mechanism to prepare samples;
  • maintaining equipment and methods of analysis for in-house analytical chemistry work;
  • contracting routine chemical requests to an outside laboratory;
  • providing data quality control for both in-house and contract generated data.

Long term efforts include continued support to the Mineral Resources Program by providing these services and modifying the analytical methods or administrative procedures to better meet the needs of the scientists.

Sample and Data Management: We perform all the necessary functions relating to the receipt, processing, preparation, data tracking, quality control, and archiving of samples submitted for chemical analyses. These functions are performed for both in-house and contract laboratory analyses. Sample Control processes on average 15,000-20,000 samples annually. We maintain the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), contract out routine analytical chemistry functions, perform quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) function for all chemical analyses and maintain database for both contract and in-house chemistry, perform physical preparation of samples submitted for chemical analysis. We also operate and maintain the USGS National Geochemical Sample Archive, inventory, and retrieval of previously analyzed powdered geochemical materials.

azurite and malachite micrograph
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Azurite-Malachite Intergrowths. Transmitted light micrograph, showing tabular crystals of azurite partially altered to green malachite around void areas. Cover image from USGS Scientific Investigations Report 2011-5211.

Mineral Separation: We provide Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center scientists with the expertise, equipment, and methods needed to deconstruct rocks and enlarge understanding of geologic processes by separating and concentrating mineral constituents using water tables, heavy liquids, magnets, and microscopes; identifying and quantifying minerals using staining methods and X-ray diffraction, measuring various physical properties of whole rock including density, magnetic susceptibility, and solubility.

X-Ray Fluorescence: We provide high precision determinations of 10 major rock-forming elements as oxides and the determination of minor and trace elements in solid geologic materials using wavelength dispersive x-ray fluorescence. The accuracy achievable using the wavelength dispersive x-ray fluorescence technique for the determination of major elements as oxides is unsurpassed by any other instrumental technique. Samples are prepared and analyzed at our laboratory facility.

Denver Mineralogy Lab: We will contine method development for sample preparation for X-ray diffraction, investigating and implementing advanced X-ray diffraction analyses, and evaluating and interpretating X-ray diffraction scans.

In-House Chemistry Support Services: We provide routine single element and common laboratory support services. Analyses performed include: dissolved organic carbon and percent ash. We also perform single element analyses support for cross checking results from the contract laboratory. In addition to housing the single element analytical capability we also provide common laboratory support services such as the purchase of liquefied and compressed gases, the maintenance and repair of laboratory instrumentation, and the purchase of laboratory supplies such as acids, solvents, glassware, etc.

Contract Chemistry: We monitor the ongoing contract with AGAT Laboratories, Mississauga, Canada, for routine chemical analyses. Our objective is to ensure that all aspects of the contract are executed within the limits established in the statement of work and all performance criteria are met. 

References and Methods 

USGS In-House Methods Reference: Taggart, J.E., 2002, Analytical methods for chemical analysis of geologic and other materials, U.S. Geological Survey: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 02-223, https://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2002/ofr-02-0223/.

Analytical Contract Laboratory Method Summaries: View all 40 method summaries in one document. [.docx, 70 KB]

  1. Sample Preparation [.docx, 16 KB] 
  2. Total Sulfur [.docx, 7 KB]
  3. Total Carbon [.docx, 7 KB]
  4. Carbonate Carbon (Inorganic Carbon) [.docx, 16 KB]
  5. Mercury (Hg) [.docx, 16 KB]
  6. Arsenic (As) [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  7. Antimony (Sb) [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  8. Selenium (Se) [.docx, 16 KB]
  9. Fluoride (F) [.docx, 7 KB]
  10. Chloride (Cl) [.docx, 16 KB]
  11. Ferrous Oxide (FeO) [.docx, 16 KB]
  12. Essential and Non-Essential Water [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  13. Gold (Au) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay [.docx, 16 KB]
  14. Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd) and Platinum (Pt) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay [.docx, 8 KB]
  15. Major Elements by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) [.docx, 17 KB]
  16. Major Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP), Lithium Metaborate Fusion (ICP-16) [.docx, 9 KB]
  17. Forty-Nine Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-OES-MS), Multi-Acid Digestion (ICP-49) [.docx, 10 KB]
  18. Sixty Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy-Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-OES-MS), Sodium Peroxide Fusion (ICP-60) [.docx, 10 KB]
  19. High Concentration Rare Earth Elements by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectroscopy (ICP-MS), Sodium Peroxide Fusion [.docx, 9 KB]
  20. Multi-Acid Digestion with Fusion of Residue by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-OES-MS) [.docx, 18 KB]
  21. Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) [.docx, 17.2 KB]
  22. Platinum Group Elements by Nickel Sulfide Fire Assay and Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) [.docx, 8 KB]
  23. Trace Level Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd) and Platinum (Pt) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) [.docx, 17 KB]
  24. Ore Grade Gold (Au), Palladium (Pd) and Platinum (Pt) by Lead Fusion Fire Assay and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) [.docx, 16.6 KB]
  25. Base Metals by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  26. Trace Elements by Pressed Pellet X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) [.docx, 16.4 KB]
  27. Rare Earth Elements by Wavelength Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (WDXRF) [.docx, 17 KB]
  28. High Concentration Mercury (Hg) in Solid Samples [.docx, 16 KB]
  29. Microwave Digestion [.docx, 18 KB]
  30. Sequential Extraction Analysis - 5 Stages [.docx, 18 KB]
  31. Deionized Water Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  32. Ammonium Acetate Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  33. Cold Hydroxylamine Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  34. Hot Hydroxylamine Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  35. Sodium Pyrophosphate Leach [.docx, 18 KB]
  36. Aqua Regia Digestion [.docx, 18 KB]
  37. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-OES-MS) Water [.docx, 18 KB]
  38. Precious Metals in Water [.docx, 16.5 KB]
  39. Trace Levels in Water [.docx, 17.6 KB]
  40. Single Elements in Water [.docx, 16.5 KB]

 

Return to Mineral Resources Program | Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Related USGS projects.

link
data portal screenshot

National Geochemical Database

The National Geochemical Database project assembles, reformats, corrects, and archives historical data obtained from the geochemical analysis of millions of geologic samples collected for USGS studies. These data, representing hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of USGS research, are provided to USGS researchers; other Federal agencies; State Geological Surveys and Environmental Protection...
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center
link

National Geochemical Database

The National Geochemical Database project assembles, reformats, corrects, and archives historical data obtained from the geochemical analysis of millions of geologic samples collected for USGS studies. These data, representing hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of USGS research, are provided to USGS researchers; other Federal agencies; State Geological Surveys and Environmental Protection...
Learn More
link
Earth MRI data and applications graphic

Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.
By
Mineral Resources Program
link

Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

The goal of Earth MRI is to improve our knowledge of the geologic framework in the United States and to identify areas that may have the potential to contain undiscovered critical mineral resources. Enhancement of our domestic mineral supply will decrease the Nation’s reliance on foreign sources of minerals that are fundamental to our security and economy.
Learn More

Below are data releases associated with this project.

Geochemical data generated by projects funded by the USGS Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (ver. 10.0, June 2024)

The geochemical data included here were generated as part of the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI), which was developed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in response to a Federal directive calling on various Federal agencies to address potential vulnerabilities in the Nation’s supply of critical mineral resources. Earth MRI is a partnership between the USGS, State Geological Survey
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Earth Mapping Resources Initiative (Earth MRI)

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah

Beginning in November of 2015, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) undertook a project to reanalyze approximately 60,000 archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) project from selected areas in Arizona, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. A small amount (approximately 0.
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Reanalysis of Additional Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment Samples from Idaho and Montana

In December of 2018, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) signed a Technical Assistance Agreement with a third party to reanalyze 2,324 archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) project from selected areas in Idaho and Montana. A small amount (approximately 0.25 grams [g]) of sieved less than
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Global Geochemical Database for Critical Minerals in Archived Mine Samples

The Critical Minerals in Archived Mine Samples Database (CMDB) contains chemistry and geologic information for historic ore and ore-related rock samples from mineral deposits in the United States. In addition, the database contains samples from archetypal deposits from 27 other countries in North America, South America, Asia, Africa and Europe. Samples were obtained from archived ore collections u
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Reanalysis of Selected Archived NURE-HSSR Sediment and Soil Samples from Alaska

Selected archived sample splits collected as part of the National Uranium Resource Evaluation (NURE) Hydrogeochemical and Stream Sediment Reconnaissance (HSSR) program, were reanalyzed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) as part of a NURE-HSSR Reanalysis project (Smith and others, 2018). A small amount (approximately 0.25 grams [g]) of sieved less than 75-micron sample material was retrieved from
By
Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Below are publications associated with this project.

Magnetic and gravity gradiometry framework for Mesoproterozoic iron oxide-apatite and iron oxide-copper-gold deposits, southeast Missouri, USA

High-resolution airborne magnetic and gravity gradiometry data provide the geophysical framework for evaluating the exploration potential of hidden iron oxide deposits in Mesoproterozoic basement rocks of southeast Missouri. The data are used to calculate mineral prospectivity for iron oxide-apatite (IOA) ± rare earth element (REE) and iron oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) deposits. Results delineate the
Authors
Anne E. McCafferty, Jeffrey Phillips, Rhonda L. Driscoll
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Minerals, Energy, and Geophysics Science Center, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

A process for reducing rocks and concentrating heavy minerals

To obtain minerals suitable for age-dating and other analyses, it is necessary to first reduce the mineral-bearing rock to a fine, sand-like consistency. Reducing whole rock requires crushing, grinding, and sieving. Ideally, the reduced material should range in size from 80- to 270-mesh (an opening between wires in a sieve). The openings in an 80-mesh sieve are equal to 0.007 inches, 0.177 millime
Authors
Thomas R. Strong, Rhonda L. Driscoll
By
Energy and Minerals Mission Area, Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

Assessment of the geoavailability of trace elements from selected zinc minerals

This assessment focused on five zinc-bearing minerals. The minerals were subjected to a number of analyses including quantitative X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, leaching tests, and bioaccessibility and toxicity studies. Like a previous comprehensive assessment of five copper-bearing minerals, the purpose of this assessment was to obtain structural and chemical information and to characteri
Authors
Rhonda L. Driscoll, Phillip L. Hageman, William Benzel, Sharon F. Diehl, Suzette Morman, LaDonna M. Choate, Heather Lowers
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center, Denver Microbeam Laboratory

Assessment of the geoavailability of trace elements from minerals in mine wastes: analytical techniques and assessment of selected copper minerals

In this study, four randomly selected copper-bearing minerals were examined—azurite, malachite, bornite, and chalcopyrite. The objectives were to examine and enumerate the crystalline and chemical properties of each of the minerals, to determine which, if any, of the Cu-bearing minerals might adversely affect systems biota, and to provide a multi-procedure reference. Laboratory work included use o
Authors
Rhonda Driscoll, Phillip L. Hageman, William Benzel, Sharon F. Diehl, David T. Adams, Suzette Morman, LaDonna M. Choate
By
Mineral Resources Program, Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Science Center

From Projectile Points to Microprocessors - The Influence of Some Industrial Minerals

In the language of economic geology, Earth materials are classified as metallic ores, fuel minerals, gemstones, and industrial minerals. Most people know that metallic ores yield shiny, conductive, ductile elements such as copper, iron, or gold. Most understand that energy-producing coals constitute a fuel mineral. Likewise, dazzling rubies and rare sapphires are universally recognized as gemstone
Authors
Rhonda Driscoll

Methods for synthesis of some jarosites

Experimental procedures in this report summarize attempts to synthesize potassium-, hydronium-, sodium-, and mixed-composition (hydronium-bearing) jarosites. After experimentation, some acceptable combinations of chemical and physical factors were found to routinely synthesize chemically different jarosites, which were used as part of a characterization study of some natural and synthetic jarosite
Authors
Rhonda Driscoll, Reinhard Leinz
By
Water Resources Mission Area
Was this page helpful?