A Practical Guide to Ore Microscopy-Volume 1: Mineral Identification

This book provides a guide to the microscopic study of metallic ores with reflected light, combining a rigorous approach with an attractive and easy-to-follow format. It includes systematic color analysis and the application of new multispectral reflectance datasets, and discusses the essential gangue minerals. It is part of a two-volume work and is intended for professionals and engineers dealing with mineral resources, as well as postgraduate students.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1108 pages
Publication date: 14 August 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive guide provides a detailed exploration into the microscopic examination of metallic ores using reflected light. Combining a rigorous approach with an engaging and user-friendly format, it employs high-quality calibrated photomicrographs to illustrate the significance of color in ore identification. The ore identification methodology is further enhanced by incorporating systematic color analysis and utilizing new multispectral reflectance datasets, offering an efficient tool for automated ore characterization. Additionally, the first volume of this two-part work delves into the essential gangue minerals, providing readers with a foundational understanding of the method as it is applied to over 200 selected minerals, encompassing the most important ore and gangue minerals. Each entry in the book includes an explanatory text accompanied by color photomicrographs showcasing the examination of the ores under various microscope settings. This is preceded by a table summarizing the ores' key properties, and followed by spectral information in the visible and near-infrared ranges (specular reflectance values ranging from 370 to 1000 nm). Special attention is given to some uncommon and strategic ores, such as columbotantalite (known as "coltan") and monazite, which are described for the first time using reflected light. Furthermore, the book offers a comprehensive learning strategy designed to assist beginners and students. The approach is primarily practical, emphasizing the development of observation skills, including self-checking through proposed practical tasks. Additionally, the traditional use of determinative tables is critically reviewed and updated, ensuring that readers are equipped with the most current and accurate information. This book is part of a two-volume work, with the second volume focusing on intergrowths/textural analysis and interpretation, as well as computer-vision-based automation and applications to ore processing/geometallurgy. The intended audience for this work includes mineralogists, geologists, mining engineers, and students interested in the field of mineral analysis.

Dimension: 279 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031126536
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023