Silicate Analysis as Viewed by Geological Surveys

Abstract

Nowhere is silicate analysis more commonly encountered than in the laboratories of geological surveys. Whether instrumental or wet, it is one of the most difficult and exacting forms of analysis, often requiring many hours for one determination. As analysts in such laboratories are confronted with a bewildering variety of samples, they must be familiar with many chemical and physical methods of analysis. A particular philosophy and special types of training are required of a successful analyst in this field. A geological working environment poses special problems for silicate analysts. The reasons for making so many silicate analyses and the scope and degree of difficulty of such analyses are explained, and analytical applications and unusual silicate work at the Illinois State Geological Survey are discussed and illustrated.