Instrumentation

The flagship instrument of the CCIM is a Cameca IMS1280 ion microprobe, employing an analytical technique termed secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). The IMS1280 is a state-of-the-art instrument that incorporates an array of ion detectors ('multicollector') to improve performance, i.e., MC-SIMS. This instrument allows the analysis of both natural and synthetic solid samples at a spatial resolution of ~1 - 30 microns (10^-6 m), and depth resolution of 0.01 - 5 microns. Types of analyses include single spots, line profiles, and ion images, usually obtained within minutes. During SIMS, the primary probe, comprising Cs+ or O- ions focused on the target, excavates and ionizes tiny amounts of the sample's atoms and molecules. These secondary ions are subsequently extracted into a mass spectrometer to determine their mass/charge ratios and relative abundances to a precision as good as +/-0.01%.

For characterization of samples in 2D prior to analysis, the CCIM houses a new Zeiss EVO 15 scanning electron microscope equipped with secondary electron and backscattered electron detectors, an Oxford Instruments Inca EDS/EBSD system, a Robinson wide spectrum cathodoluminescence (CL) detector, and a Gatan Chroma CL detector. The CL patterns of minerals are particuraly useful for mapping their overall compositional and structural heterogeneity prior to ion probe analysis.

 

 

For 3D characterization of some samples, the CCIM has access to an X-ray micro-computed tomography (CT) scanner (Skyscan 1172 with four node computer cluster). For the establishment of stable isotope reference materials, the capabilities of the stable isotope laboratory include a laser fluorination line with a New Wave MIR 10-30 laser fusing system. Other isotopic reference materials are characterized in the Department's radiogenic isotope facility. Major and minor element characterization utilizes the electron microprobe laboratory. Support workshop facilities for the CCIM include a sample preparation laboratory, and electronics and machine shops.