SAMPLE PREPARATION AND

ANALYTICAL METHODS
GEOCHEMISTRY, EXPLORATION AND MINING

 Sample preparation and analytical methods
Geochemistry, exploration and mining

SAMPLE PREPARATION 4
Rock samples 4
Automated Sample preparation 6
Sample preparation schemas 7
Sample preparation methods 8
Soil and sediment samples 9
Sample preparation methods 9

BASE METAL ANALYSES 10

Geochemical analyses Exploration analyses (non-mineralised samples) 11
Geochemical analyses Rare earth and other trace elements 12
Base metal assays Ore grade analyses 13
Base metal assays One element assays 14
Base metal assays Oxide ore package for Iron and Uranium ores 15

PRECIOUS METAL ANALYSES 16

Precious metal assays Geochemical analyses ( non-mineralised samples) 19
Precious metal assays Ore grade analyses 20
Special analyses for gold 21

ADDITIONAL ASSAYS 22

PETROLOGICAL ANALYSES 24
Whole rock analysis 25
Precious metals 25
Rare earth elements 26
Individual determinations for whole rock analysis 27

INDUSTRIAL MINERAL ANALYSES 28

Determination of hydrochloric acid soluble elements 28
Determination of hydrochloric acid soluble elements and insoluble residue of the sample 28

CHARACTERIZATION OF WASTE 29
Leaching tests 29
Acid Generation Potential Evaluation 29

SAMPLE MANAGEMENT AND STORAGE 30

ABBREVIATIONS 31


REFERENCES 32

3
SAMPLE PREPARATION

Rock samples
The objective of a precise sample preparation scheme is to produce a representative and meaningful test sam-
ple (regularly about 100 - 150 g) from a large bulk sample. The grain size of the prepared sample must be so
fine that the element of interest (or host mineral) can be properly liberated from the bulk matrix and distributed
in the pulp to produce a homogeneous distribution to ensure sufficient representativity for the following analyti-
cal methods. This is particularly important for low-concentration ores (e.g. Au and PGEs) where the number of
mineral particles producing ore concentration is always low.

Different minerals behave differently during pulverisation most (brittle) minerals will easily break down to
small particles while some (e.g. native gold) will just change their shape if proper sample preparation methods
are not used.

It is commonly accepted that poor sample preparation is, next to poor sampling, the largest source of bias in
an exploration or resource evaluation project. Sample preparation methods should therefore be selected as
carefully as the actual analytical methods.

Drying
All samples are always dried no matter what the earlier sample preparation history is (Method 10). Exception-
ally wet and large samples (RC-, chip-samples etc.) require longer drying in elevated temperature (Method 14).

For routine sample preparation we recommend our automated sample preparation system.

Conventional, manual sample preparation (crushing, splitting, pulverizing) is available in our laboratories in
Rovaniemi, Kuopio, Espoo and Sodankyl

Crushing
The standard scheme consists of direct onestage fine crushing using a special type jaw crushers (nominal
particle size > 70 % < 2 mm), precision riffle splitting (Method 31) and pulverising the split subsample of 100
150g. This is a suitable method if crushed reject is needed for future work. The use of this method is meaning-
ful to maximum size of 2000 g samples, because if more than 3 - 4 splittings are required the representativity
of the split subsample can not be assured. If larger than 2000 g samples are prepared using this procedure an
extra pre - crushing (Method 30) is invoiced.

For samples containing visible gold and/or for unusually big or heterogeneous samples, (max. 3,5 kg) we
recommend standard crushing to 5-10mm (Method 30) and followed by pulverising the entire test sample
(Methods 50) using Essa LM5 mills.

If crushed reject is required for future work the crushed material can be split to two (e.g. 1-2 kg) splits (riffle
splitting Method 35) the other for storage and the other for pulverising (Method 50).

Pulverising
Pulverising will always cause unavoidable contamination of wear metals at trace level from the grinding sur-
faces. This contamination may vary depending on material of the bowl, hardness of the sample material,

4
 SAMPLE PREPARATION

Some examples of bowl materials used at LABTIUM and expected contamination:

- carbon steel (< 0.2 % Fe, no base metals)
- hardened steel (< 0.2 % Fe, low Mn, Ni, Cu, Cr, Co)
- chrome steel (up to 200 ppm Cr, < 0.2 % Fe, traces Mn, Cu, Co)
- tungsten carbide (W, Co)
- agate (Si)

To minimise cross-contamination, cleaning of pulverising bowls between samples (pulverising with

barren quartzite) is included in the price in all Labtium pulverising methods. The pulverisers and jaw
crushers are cleaned with compressed air and brushes between every sample.

The standard scheme consists of direct onestage fine crushing using a special type jaw crushers (Method 31
nominal particle size > 70 % < 2 mm), precision riffle splitting (Method 35) and pulverising the split subsample
of 100 150g (Method 40).

For samples containing visible gold and/or for unusually big or heterogeneous samples, (max. 3,5 kg) we
recommend standard crushing (Method 30) and followed by pulverising the entire test sample (Methods 50,
hardened steel bowl) using Essa LM5 mills, avoiding any sample splitting which may deteriorate representativ-
ity of large samples. The pulverising takes place in large bowl and provides a large homogenised test sample
for representative subsampling directly from the bowl without any further sample handling. The grinding action
in LM5 is based on impact and hence smearing of gold particles (which are a problem with ring and disc mills)
on bowl surfaces is minimised, which is an addition advantage of the technique. The Method 50 is also suit-
able for pulverising RC (reverse circulation) samples and for percussion drill chip-samples, making crushing
and splitting unnecessary. If sample size exceeds 3,5 kg the sample must be pulverised by separate millings
and homogenised before subsampling to analytical sample. In this case additional charge is invoiced for each
kg exceeding 3,5 kg.

For high precision whole rock analysis tungsten carbide pulverising must be used.

5
SAMPLE PREPARATION

Rock samples
Rock samples
Automated Sample Preparation
Automated Sample Preparation
Labtium offers as a routine method for sample preparation of rock samples a totally automated sample
Labtium offers
preparation lineas
in a routine method
Rovaniemi for sample preparation of rock samples a totally automated sample prepa-
laboratory.
ration line in Rovaniemi laboratory.
Through the use of a totally automated sample preparation system several benefits are attained. The
Through the (accuracy/repeatability)
consistency use of a totally automated sample
of the preparation
process system that
is something several
can benefits
never beareattained
attained.inThe con-
manual
sistency preparation
sample (accuracy/repeatability) of the process
where a number is something
a different people are thatcarrying
can never
out be
theattained
work. in manual
Even sample
though the
preparation where a number a different people are carrying out the work. Even though the procedures
procedures are well documented and regulated the individuals do not carry out tasks exactly the same way are well
documented
and and regulated
human errors are still the individuals
possible. The do notcritical
most carry out tasks
thing exactly
in the wholetheprocess,
same way and humanthe
maintaining errors are
sample
still possible. The most critical thing in the whole process, maintaining the sample representativity during
representativity during the reduction of particle and sample size is carried out state-of the-art rotary splitters.the
reduction of particle
Contamination controland
is sample sizeissue
a profound is carried
in theout
QCstate-of the-art
of sample rotary splitters.
preparation. Also thisContamination control
can be carried is a
out more
profound issue
precisely in the QC ofinsample
and consistently preparation.
automated systems.Also this
Loss ofcan be segregation
fines, carried out more precisely
of materials byand consistently
density, shape
in automated
and systems.
size of the Losscross
particles, of fines, segregation of
contamination materials
from by density,
previous sample shape and size
etc can of the particles,
be minimized cross
by sealed
contamination from previous sample etc can be minimized by sealed compartments and optimizing the
compartments and optimizing the system parameters of e.g. slitters, controlled dedusting, cleaning of the system
parameters
machine of e.g.surfaces.
working slitters, controlled dedusting,
The Labtium cleaning
concept utilizesofathe machine
unique working
glass bead surfaces.
blasting inThe Labtiumofcon-
cleaning the
cept utilizes a unique glass bead blasting in cleaning of the pucks and bowls. The quality of
pucks and bowls. The quality of the cleaning procedure can also be monitored by human eye which is notthe cleaning pro-
cedure can
possible also be monitored
in flow-through by human eye
type pulverizers. which
Surely theisincreased
not possible in flow-through
capacity will affecttype pulverizers. Surely
the turn-around the
times and
increased capacity will affect the turn-around times and also cost-efficiency. However still the
also cost-efficiency. However still the most important benefits are the improved working conditions - bymost important
benefitsthe
sealing areequipment
the improved working
noise conditions
and exposure - by sealing
to mineral dust the
canequipment noise
be controlled andand exposure
minimized to mineral staff
. Laboratory dust
can
is be controlled
liberated andphysically
from the minimizedhard
. Laboratory staff
repetitive workis liberated
to more from the physically
challenging hard repetitive
and versatile work. Thework to more
benefit of
challenging
robotized and versatile
sample work.for
preparation Thethe
benefit
clientofisrobotized sample preparation
shorter turnaround time andforbetter
the client is shorter
quality control turnaround
in sample
time and better
preparation. quality control in sample preparation.
The sample
The sample preparation
preparationline
lineincludes
includes
- sample
- sample logging
logging and recording
and recording the sample
the sample weightweight
- fine- crushing
fine crushing
of theofrock
thesample
rock sample
to >70%to >70%
<2mm<2mmparticleparticle
size size
- splitting
- splitting with a rotary splitter to a 1 - 1,5 kg subsample
with a rotary splitter to a 1 - 1,5 kg subsample and a crushed and a crushed
reject reject
- bagging
- bagging andcode
and bar bar code labelling
labelling of the of the crushed
crushed reject reject
- pulverizing
- pulverizing thesubsample
the split split subsample
by LM2 bymills
LM2tomills
>90%to >90%
<100m<100m grain
grain size sizelow-
using using low- chrome
chrome bowls bowls
- subsampling
- subsampling the sample
the sample to one
to one or ampoules
or two two ampoules
withwith bar code
bar code labelling
labelling andand
FireFire Assay
Assay sample
sample if requested
if requested
- cleaning
- cleaning pulverizing bowl and puck with efficient glass bead blasting after every
pulverizing bowl and puck with efficient glass bead blasting after every sample sample
- adding
- adding theAssay
the Fire Fire Assay
flux toflux
theto the FA-subsample
FA-subsample and mixing
and mixing the mixture
the mixture

Maximum weight
Maximum weight of
of the
the sample
sample that
that can
can be
be prepared in the
prepared in the unit
unit is
is 10
10 kg.
kg. However
However samples
samples weighing >4kg are
weighing >4kg are
subject to additional charge. Minimum weight of the sample is
subject to additional charge. Minimum weight of the sample is 1 kg.1 kg.
Additional ampoule
Additional ampoulesubsample
subsamplecan
canbe
berepresentatively
representatively split
split e.g.
e.g. to to
bebe send
send to atosecond
a second laboratory.
laboratory.

Sample preparation of drill cores and rock 1 10kg ROBO1

Automated sample samples. Crushing , splitting, pulverizing
preparation and subsampling

Sample preparation of percussion 1 - 10kg ROBO2

samples (<5mm). Splitting, pulverizing
and subsampling

6
 SAMPLE PREPARATION

Rock samples
Rock samples
Sample preparation schemas
Sample Preparation Schemas
Standard sample preparation Total sample preparation of
of rock samples (max 2000g) rock samples (max 3500g)

ROCK SAMPLE ROCK SAMPLE

DRILL CORE DRILL CORE
RC-SAMPLE RC-SAMPLE
CHIP SAMPLE CHIP SAMPLE

Storing half Splitting by sawing Splitting by sawing Storing half

of original of original
sample sample

o o
Drying at 70 C Drying at 70 C

Labtium method code 10 Labtium method code 10

Jaw crushing (max 2.0 kg). Jaw crushing

Fine jaw crusher. Coarse jaw crushing.
Nominal > 70 % < 2 mm
Labtium method code 31 Labtium method code 30

Storing Subsampling by riffle splitting Pulverising the entire sample. Storing pulp
coarse reject (max 3,5 kg);
LM5 mill; hardened steel
bowl.
Nominal > 90 % < 100 m
Labtium method code 35 Quartzite cleaning after every
samples

Labtium method code 50

Pulverising the split subsample Subsampling from the bowl

Ring mill; carbon steel bowl
Nominal > 90 % < 100 microns
Quartzite cleaning after every
sample
(100-150g)
(or by mat-rolling if requested
(Labtium method code 36)

Labtium method code 40

Test sample in vial (100 150 g) Test sample in vial (100 150 g)

Additionally riffle
Additionally rifflesplitting
splitting(35)
(35)can
canbebe included
included after
after crushing
crushing to
to retain
retain
50% of 50% of the crushed
the crushed reject. However
reject. However coarse (30)
coarse crushing crushing
has to(30)
be re-
has to be
placed by replaced by fine
fine crushing crushing (31).
(31).

7
SAMPLE PREPARATION

Rock samples
Sample
Sample preparation
preparation methods
methods

Preparation Method Maximum Labtium

Description weight method
o
Drying in forced air ovens Drying at 70 C 4000 g 10
In stainless steel/aluminium
trays
o
Drying at < 40 C 4000 g 11

Sorting and drying of exceptionally large 8000 g 14

o
or wet samples at > 100 C
(e.g. RC -or chip samples)

Standard coarse crushing the whole 4000 g 30

Crushing by jaw crusher sample using Mn-steel jaws

Fine crushing the whole sample using Mn- 2000 g 31

steel jaws to nominal > 70 % < 2 mm

Pulverising in ring mill Pulverising the split sample in carbon 150 g 40

steel bowl
Quartzite cleaner included

Grain size of the pulp Pulverising the split sample in tungsten 150 g 43
> 90 % < 100 m carbide bowl (petrological samples)

Pulverising the entire sample in hardened 3500 g 50

steel bowl (LM5)
(e.g. Drill cores, RC - or chip samples)

Pulverising the entire sample in 20 kg 51

continuous flow chrome steel bowl,
splitting by rotary splitter included
(e.g. RC-, chip or feasibility samples).

Cutting of drill cores and Sawing to two equal halves by diamond

rock samples saw, returning the other half to original
core case, packing the other half to plastic
bags or aluminium trays for further
processing

Core-logging facilities can be leased in Sodankyl for exclusive use on daily basis.

8
 SAMPLE PREPARATION

Preparation Method Maximum Labtium

Description weight method

Miscellaneous Sample Separate splitting /subsampling by riffle 4000 g 35

Preparation splitter (max 5 splittings) to 100 - 150 g
subsample.

Separate homogenisation / subsampling 4000 g 36

by mat-rolling to 100 - 150 g subsample.

Separate splitting / subsampling by rotary 4000 g 37

splitter.

Wet sieving to 100 m, (QC for 200 g 28

pulverising) and weighing the +100 m

Compositing / homogenising large pulps in 50 kg

rotary mixer

Soil and sediment samples

Sample preparation methods
For soil samples (e.g. till), we recommend drying at 110 C (Method 10) and sieving to < 0.06 mm fraction
(Method 24). If mercury or other volatile components are to be determined, lower drying temperatures must
be used. High drying temperatures may also cause oxidation of some minerals. Other sieve fractions (<
0.125, < 0.25, < 0.5 mm) can be used upon clients request. When requesting sieving, please indicate the
fraction to be analysed. If coarse sieve fractions are used for analysis, additional pulverizing is regularly
required (Method 40).

For some purposes, the entire soil sample (weathered bedrock) or a coarse sieved fraction of the sample
can also be crushed and/or pulverised.

Preparation Method Description Maximum Labtium

weight method
o
Drying in permeable Drying at 70 C 2000 g 10
bags* in forced air
ovens
o
Drying at 40 C 2000 g 11

Sieving with nylon Sieving to < 0.06 mm fraction 1000 g 24

sieves

Sieving to a fraction selected by the 1000 g 27

client

Pulverising in ring mill Pulverising the split sample in carbon 150 g 40

steel bowl

9
BASE METAL ANALYSES

SAMPLE ANALYSIS
Base metal assays
analyses
To obtain the best quality and cost-efficiency in a particular geological project it is important to decide the
strategy of analysis by selecting the appropriate analytical methods (element suit, digestion / pretreatment
method, detection limits, optimum measurement area etc.) to fit the objectives of the project. Selecting a
wrong method may end up in attaining optimised results in wrong concentration levels and introducing
problems in laboratory (contamination, additional sample dilutions) which may deteriorate accuracy and
precision.

Methods
The specialists of laboratory will also assist you in selecting the optimised methods of analysis for your project.

For geochemical exploration for the base metals, we recommend aqua regia digestion of the sample and multi-
element analysis by ICP-OES (Method 511P). The package can be upgraded by ICP-MS- analysis to include
larger set of elements and lower detection limits (Method 511PM).

Although aqua regia is a powerful leaching agent, it still produces a partial dissolution for many elements. The
dissolution of silicates and refractory minerals (e.g. baryte, chromite and other spinelles, zircon, cassiterite,
tourmaline) varies depending on various factors. Most of the sulphide and oxide minerals (ore forming minerals)
are, however, dissolved. The data will also give information on alteration and weathering of rock and till samples.

Method 510P is an economic choice when only ore forming base elements are of importance. The method is
suitable for mineralised samples with moderate grades. There are limitations in the solubility of Ag and Pb at
high concentrations, and samples expected to contain more than 5 % of sulphur should be analysed for sulphur
using an alternative method (e.g. by combustion technique, S-analyser, Method 810L).

Rare elements including rare earth elements can be analysed using multi-acid total digestion and ICP-OES and
ICP-MS analysis (307P/M).

Refractory ore minerals (e.g. chromite, magnetite, ilmenite, columbite, cassiterite etc.), high-grade base
metal ores (e.g. Ni ores) and concentrates can also be analysed using alkaline peroxide fusion and multi-
element analysis by ICP-OES (720P) or XRF-analysis (179X).

When high quality assays of base metals is required more representative subsamples and traditional high-
precision procedures either by ICP-OES (514P) as a multi-element package or by FAAS (514A) using single
element methods can be used. Single-element (or selected multi-element) assays using a total analysis by
sodium peroxide fusion is carried out using the method 721P. Results close to total are obtained also for
major elements (except Si). Methods 720P and 721P can be applied also to mineral samples and
concentrates.

10
 BASE METAL ANALYSES

Geochemical analyses.
Exploration analyses (non-mineralised samples).

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

pretreatment weight limit (ppm) method
method

Aqua Regia ICP-OES 0.15 g Ag 1 511P

Digestion Al 20 31 elements
As 10
B 5
Ba 1
Be 0.5
The basic package of
511P using ICP-OES Ca 50
can be upgraded by Cd 1
ICP-MS analyses to Co 1
package 511PM Cr 1
Cu 1
Fe 50
K 200
La 1
Li 1
Mg 50
Mn 1
Mo 2
Na 50
Ni 3
P 50
Pb 10
S 20
Sb 20
Sc 0.5
Sr 0.5
Ti 1
V 1
Y 0.5
Zn 1
Zr 1

ICP-MS Ag 0.01 511PM

Be 0.05 Combined
Bi 0.01 40 elements
Ce 0.02
In 0.02
Mo 0.01
Sb 0.03
Se 0.05
Te 0.006
Th 0.05
U 0.05
W 0.05
Yb 0.02

11
BASE METAL ANALYSES

Geochemical analyses.
Rare earth and other trace elements.

Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

Decomposition weight limit (ppm) method
pretreatment method

ICP-MS As 0.5 307P/M

HF-HClO4-digestion 0.2 g Ba 2
Package A Be 0.5
Bi 0.1
Cd 0.1
Co 0.2
Cr 4
Cu 2
Li 6
Mo 0.6
Ni 4
Pb 1
Rb 0.2
Sb 0.1
Sn 2
Sr 3
Ti 10
Tl 0.1
V 0.5
Zn 10

Package B Ce 0.15
0.2 g Dy 0.1
Er 0.15
Eu 0.05
Gd 0.15
Ho 0.05
La 0.1
Lu 0.05
Nd 0.25
Pr 0.05
Sm 0.2
Sc 0.3
Tb 0.05
Th 0.4
Tm 0.05
U 0.1
Y 0.1
Yb 0.1

12
 BASE METAL ANALYSES

Base metal assays

Ore grade analyses

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

pretreatment method weight limit (ppm) method

Aqua Regia Digestion ICP-OES 0.15 g Ag 1 510P

As 10 14 elements
Cd 1
Co 1
Cr 1
Cu 1
Fe 50
Mn 1
Mo 2
Ni 3
Pb 10
S 20
Sb 20
Zn 1

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

pretreatment method weight limit (%) method

Sodium peroxide ICP-OES 0.20 g Al 0.01 720P

fusion As 0.01 19 elements
Ca 0.01
Co 0.001
Cr 0.003
Cu 0.002
Fe 0.01
K 0.05
Mg 0.02
Mn 0.001
Mo 0.005
Ni 0.005
P 0.05
Pb 0.01
S 0.02
Sb 0.01
Ti 0.01
V 0.005
Zn 0.005

13
BASE METAL ANALYSES

Base metal assays

One element assays
Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium
pretreatment method weight limit (%) method

Aqua Regia FAAS 1.0 g Ag 1 ppm 514A

Digestion As 0.05
Cd 1 ppm
Co 0.01
Cu 0.01
Ni 0.01
Pb 0.01
Zn 0.01

ICP-OES 1.0 g Ag 1 ppm 514P

As 0.05 (Package of
Cd 1 ppm 8 elements)
Co 0.01
Cu 0.01
Ni 0.01
Pb 0.01
S 0.01
Zn 0.01

Sodium peroxide ICP-OES 0.2 g Al 0.01 721P

fusion As 0.01
B 0.01
Ba 0.05
Be 0.001
Ca 0.01
Co 0.001
Cr 0.003
Cu 0.002
Fe 0.01
K 0.05
La 0.003
Li 0.005
Mg 0.02
Mn 0.001
Mo 0.005
Nb 0.02
Ni 0.005
P 0.05
Pb 0.01
S 0.02
Sb 0.01
Sc 0.002
Sr 0.001
Ta 0.01
Ti 0.01
U 0.01
V 0.005
Y 0.002
Zn 0.005

Analyses of processed samples (concentrates and other metallurgical products etc.) on request.

Check also sulphide selective leaches for Ni-ores (additional assays).

14
 BASE METAL ANALYSES

Base metals assays

Oxide ore package for Iron and Uranium ores
Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium
Decomposition weight limit (ppm) method
pretreatment method

Pressed powder pellets XRF 7.0 g Al 100 179X

Ba 20 (31 elements)
Ca 30
Cd 30
Ce 30
Cl 60
Cr 30
Cu 20
F 200
Fe 100
K 30
La 30
Mg 200
Mn 30
Na 500
Nb 7
Ni 20
P 60
Pb 30
Rb 10
S 60
Si 100
Sr 10
Ta 30
Th 10
Ti 30
U 10
V 30
Y 7
Zn 20
Zr 10

15
PRECIOUS METAL ANALYSES

Precious metal analyses

To obtain the best quality and cost-efficiency in a particular geological project it is important to decide the strat-
egy of analysis by selecting the appropriate analytical methods (element suit, digestion / pretreatment method,
detection limits, optimum measurement area etc.) to fit the objectives of the project. To help this selection a
description of different strategic levels of analysis applied at is given. Selecting a wrong method may end up in
attaining optimised results in wrong concentration levels and introducing problems in laboratory (contamina-
tion, additional sample dilutions) which may deteriorate accuracy and precision.

Methods
In gold and PGE-exploration, both the careful selection of sample preparation method and the choice of analyt-
ical method (including the weight of analytical sample) are critical. Figure 2 shows the effect of the grain size of
nugget gold on sample weight for obtaining acceptable precision in gold analysis. We recommend carrying out
a pilot study with selected, typical samples of the specified mineralization at an early stage of a large resource
evaluation program. The mode of occurrence of gold can be studied using the so-called diagnostic leach and
screen fire assay. Replicate analyses of samples can be carried out to study which of the available analytical
techniques (and subsample weight) will give acceptable precision (e.g. < 5 %) for reliable resource evaluation.
Based on this data, a scheme of sample preparation and analysis can be selected for optimum accuracy and
precision. A tailored QA/QC-protocol for the project can be planned. The study will also provide information to
be used as baseline data for more thorough metallurgical tests.

Different pretreatment and preconcentration /separation methods are available (aqua regia digestion, fire as-
say, cyanide leach) combined with different methods of determination (FAAS; GFAAS; ICP-MS; ICP-OES;
gravimetric), each method having its benefits and limitations. Our specialists will assist in the selection of a
suitable analytical method.

In the geochemical exploration for the precious metals (Au, Pd and Pt), we recommend aqua regia leach,
followed by pre-concentration by Hg co-precipitation and analysis by GFAAS (Methods 520U and 521U; 5
g subsample) (Kontas et al.1990). Sub-ppb detection limits can be attained for Au and Pd giving meaningful
anomaly contrasts. Alternatively a larger sample weight of 20 g can be used (Method 522U). The methods are
subsample)
applicable to(Kontas et al.1990).
non-mineralised Sub-ppb
samples (till, detection
weatheredlimits can be
bedrock, attained
stream for Au and
sediments, Pd rock).
humus, giving meaningful
anomaly contrasts. Alternatively a larger sample weight of 20 g can be used (Method 522U). The methods
are
Theapplicable to non-mineralised
use of pathfinder elements in samples
geochemical(till, weathered
prospectingbedrock, streamforsediments,
particularly humus,
gold is known rock).
to give more infor-
mation of element dispersion in secondary environments and assist in the classification of the type of minerali-
The useMany
zation. of pathfinder elements
studies have in geochemical
been carried prospecting
out at LABTIUM particularly
to study the elementfor gold is known
associations to givetomore
connected gold
information
mineralizations (e.g. Nurmi et al.1991, Eilu 1999). Nurmi et al. concluded that the most important elements of
of element dispersion in secondary environments and assist in the classification of the type in
mineralization. Many studies
exploration for Precambrian have beengold
mesothermal carried out are:
deposits at Au,
LABTIUM to Ag,
Te, Bi, As, study the Se.
W and element
Figureassociations
3 shows the
connected to gold
most important mineralizations
pathfinder elements(e.g. Nurmi to
connected et 41
al.1991,
FinnishEilu
and1999). Nurmi Australian
11 selected et al. concluded that themeso-
and Canadian most
important elements
thermal gold in exploration
deposits representedfor
asPrecambrian mesothermal
enrichment factors relativegold deposits are: Au,offers
to basalt. LABTIUM Te, Bi,forAs, Ag,explora-
gold W and
Se. Figure
tion a 3 packing
unique shows the most Au,
including important
Bi, Sb, pathfinder
Se and Te elements
(520U) withconnected
ultra low to 41 Finnish
detection limits.and
This11setselected
can be
Australian and Canadian
complemented by Methods mesothermal gold deposits option
511P or 511PM. Another represented as enrichment
is a multi-element factorsusing
package relative to basalt.
ICP-OES and
LABTIUM offers for
ICP-MS analysis gold exploration
(515PM). a unique
This package packing
will give totallyincluding Au, Bi,
42 elements Sb, Se Au,
including andPdTeand
(520U) withultra-trace
Pt with ultra low
detection limits.limits.
level detection This set can be complemented by Methods 511P or 511PM. Another option is a multi-
element package using ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis (515PM). This package will give totally 42 elements
including Au, Pd and Pt with ultra-trace level detection limits.

Note that these methods are not suitable for mineralised samples.

16
60
Se. Figure 3 shows the most important pathfinder elements connected to 41 Finnish and 11 selected
Australian and Canadian mesothermal gold deposits represented as enrichment factors relative to basalt.
LABTIUM offers for gold exploration a unique packing includingPRECIOUS METAL
Au, Bi, Sb, Se and Te (520U)ANALYSES
with ultra low
detection limits. This set can be complemented by Methods 511P or 511PM. Another option is a multi-
element package using ICP-OES and ICP-MS analysis (515PM). This package will give totally 42 elements
including Au, Pd and Pt with ultra-trace level detection limits.

Note that these methods are not suitable for mineralised samples.

60

50
Number of deposits

40

30

20

10

0
Au Te S As W Bi Ag Se Sb B Mo Cu U Hg Pb Sn Cr Co Tl Ni Zn
Enrichment relative to basalt

> 1000 1000 - 100 100 - 0

Figure 1. Frequency and contrast of concentrations (relative to background) of elements enriched in

mesothermal gold deposits (Nurmi et al.1991).

The Method
Method 521U522U, using
or 522U is a 20 g subsample,
recommended is best
for low suited
level for prospecting or for preliminary ore assay. In some
Au-analyses.
cases, depending on the mineralogy of the sample, the aqua regia leach may give slightly lower recoveries
for Au
The as compared
Method with fire
522U, using a 20assay (Juvonen is& best
g subsample, Kontas 1999).
suited Information on
for prospecting highpreliminary
or for graphite content, which
ore assay. In
interferes
some in the
cases, aqua regia
depending onleach procedure, should
the mineralogy be conveyed
of the sample, to theregia
the aqua laboratory.
leach Also
may dissolution of some
give slightly lower
PGE-minerals
recoveries for isAunotascomplete to aqua
compared with regia.
fire assay (Juvonen & Kontas 1999). Information on high graphite
content, which interferes in the aqua regia leach procedure, should be conveyed to the laboratory. Also
Ore grade assays
dissolution of someofPGE-minerals
gold and the is
platinum metalstoare
not complete performed
aqua regia. by a high-precision classical Pb fire assay
method using either 25 g or 50 g subsamples (704/705), combined with alternative finishes (FAAS, ICP-OES,
gravimetric). If only Au (or Pd/Pt) is to be analysed, we recommend the Method 704A (or 705A) where Au is de-
termined by FAAS. If, however, Au, Pd and Pt are to be analysed we recommend the Method 704P (or 705P).
When Rh content is required, Method 708P (or 708A) can be applied. Combined with method 705A (Au) Au,
Pd, Pt and Rh can be analysed. Request for a quotation. Special precautions need to be taken if samples
contain appreciable amounts of graphite, S, As, Te, Se, Ni, Cu. For sample with high concentrations of these
metals smaller subsample weight may have to be used deviating from the original request.

Gravimetric determination after the fire assay (705G) gives the best precision and accuracy for high-grade (50
1000 ppm) gold samples and low-level concentrates. For high-level concentrates use the methods 741G and
742G.

When all six of the PGE are to be analysed, the method of choice is the NiS fire assay (714M). Our method
includes Te coprecipitation for better Au recovery (Juvonen et al. 1994). Detection limits at the ppb range are
obtained by our ICP-MS determination. Osmium is an optional element in this method and should be specified
in the request for analysis. The routine method sample weight is 15 g, but alternative sample weights can be
used.

17
PRECIOUS METAL ANALYSES

As a routine method for cyanide soluble gold we recommend Labtium method 236A which involves the use
of PAL1000 machine. The method enables the simultaneous pulverizing and cyanide leach of crushed rock
samples, percussion samples or soil samples. A 0,500 kg subsample can be used. The leaching is very effec-
tive due to aggressive leaching conditions which promote the liberation and breaking of gold nuggets. Graph-
ite, organic matter (humus) and sulphides interfere in the cyanide leach, lowering the recovery of gold.

The concentration of cyanide soluble free gold may also be evaluated using the sodium cyanide leach method.
The traditional 3 hour tumbling with the LeachWELL accelerator (235A). A large, representative subsample
(0.5 kg) can be used. Combined with pulverising of total sample (sample preparation Method 50) the method
is the best possible routine method in the case of coarse-grained gold for grade control and resource evalua-
tion samples (e.g. RC-samples, chip samples). The results attained by this partial extraction are comparable to
technical CIP- and CIL- extraction techniques and are of benefit in the metallurgical testing of the mineralisa-
tion. The method is not suitable when the total content of gold is needed.

Additional methods for gold analysis include screen fire assays for coarse grained gold, diagnostic leaches to
evaluate mode of occurrence of gold in different mineralogical phases and analysis of the total gold, which
includes cyanide leach and analysis of the tailing (and head, if requested) sample by fire assay.

The most suitable analysis method for silver is by acid digestion with aqua regia and finish with FAAS
(511A/514A) or ICP-OES (510P/514P; see base metals). However, there are potential limitations in the solu-
bility of Ag in high concentrations (Ag > 100ppm). Fire Assay and gravimetric finish (705G) with a more repre-
sentative sample and better precision can be used for ore grade samples (Ag > 50ppm). In addition metallic
silver can be analysed with cyanidation methods 235A and 236A as gold.

PAL1000 for simultaneous pulverising and cyanide leach of 0,5 kg subsample

18
 PRECIOUS METAL ANALYSES

Precious metal assays

Geochemical analyses (non-mineralised samples)
Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium
Decomposition weight limit (ppm) method
pretreatment method

Aqua Regia Leach GFAAS 5g Au 0.5ppb 520U

Bi 2ppb
Hg-coprecipitation
Sb 5ppb
Se 5ppb
Te 2ppb

5g Au* 0.5ppb 521U

Pd* 0.5ppb
Te 2ppb

Aqua Regia digestion ICP-OES and 5g Ag 0.01 515PM

ICP-MS Al 15 42 elements
As 0.05
Au 0.5ppb
B 5
Ba 1
Be 0,5
Bi 5ppb
Ca 50
Cd 0.01
Co 0.1
Cr 1
Cu 1
Fe 50
K 100
La 1
Li 1
Mg 10
Mn 1
Mo 0.01
Na 50
Ni 1
P 50
Pb 0.01
Pd 0.5ppb
Pt 0.5ppb
S 20
Sb 2ppb
Sc 0,5
Se 5ppb
Sn 0.1
Sr 1
Te 2ppb
Ti 1
Th 0,01
Tl 5ppb
U 0.01
V 1
W 0.05
Y 0.5
Zn 1
Zr 1

*Analyses of Au, Pd and Pt at sub-ppb levels in organic samples (vegetation, humus etc.) based on quotation.

19
PRECIOUS METAL ANALYSES

Precious metal assays

Ore grade analyses

Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

Decomposition weight limit (ppm)
pretreatment method method

Aqua Regia Leach GFAAS 20 g Au 0.01 522U

Pd 0.01
Hg-coprecipitation
Pt 0.02
(Preroasting
Te 0.01
Included)

Pb-Fire Assay FAAS 25 g Au 0.05 704A

Pd 0.05
Pt 0.1

50 g Au 0.02 705A
Pd 0.02
Pt 0.05

50 g Rh 0.01 708A

ICP-OES 25 g Au 10 ppb 704P

Pd 10 ppb
Pt 10 ppb

50 g Au 5 ppb 705P
Pd 5 ppb
Pt 5 ppb

50 g Pd 5 ppb 708P
Pt 5 ppb
Rh 5 ppb

NiS-Fire Assay ICP-MS 15 g Au 0.5 ppb 714M

Pd 1 ppb
Te-coprecipitation
Pt 0.1 ppb
Rh 1 ppb
Ir 0.1 ppb
Ru 2 ppb
(Os 1 ppb) Optional

PAL1000-analysis. FAAS 0.5 kg Au 0.05 236A

Pulverizing of <2mm Ag 0.1
sample and Cyanide Cu 1
Leach

Cyanide Leach FAAS 0.5 kg Au 0.05 235A

3 h accelerated Ag 0.1

20
 PRECIOUS METAL ANALYSES

For the analyses of high grade ores and low-level concentrates ( > 50 ppm 1000 ppm) we recommend Pb-Fire
Assay with gravimetric finish. High level Ag can be combined with FAAS/ICPOES determination of Au. Analyses
of Ag see also Base Metals (methods 510/514P).

Pb-Fire Assay Gravimetric 50 g Au 2 ppm 705G

or 5 ppm
Ag

Pb-Fire Assay Gravimetric 50 g Ag 2 ppm 705G

and and
FAAS/ICPOES Au 0,01ppm 705A/P

Special analyses for gold

Concentrates (e.g flotation concentrates) 740G

Pb-Fire Assay (sample weight varies 5 - 30 g) with gravimetric finish.
Includes sample preparation and representative subsampling using
precision rotary splitter.
Concentration range 100 100 000 ppm .

High grade concentrates 741G

Pb-Fire Assay (sample weight varies 5 - 30 g) with gravimetric finish.
Includes sample preparation and representative subsampling using
precision rotary splitter.
Concentration range >10% Au

Commercial assays, bullion and umpire assays 742-743G

Screen Fire Assay for coarse gold

Sieving of a 0.5 kg subsample with a 125 m (120 mesh) sieve.
Weighing each fraction.
Fire assay ( Method 705A ) of the entire + 125 m fraction.
Duplicate Fire assay ( Method 705A ) of - 125 m fraction.
Calculation of weighted concentrations of gold (total and fractions).

Total gold
Cyanide leach of a 0.5 kg subsample ( Method 235A or 236A ).
Washing, neutralising and homogenising the tailing.
Duplicate Fire Assay ( Method 705A ) of the tailing.

21
ADDITIONAL ANALYSES

ADDITIONAL ASSAYS
Additional analyses
When the ore forming mineral is exceptional or when total concentrations for geochemical or petrological studies
When the ore forming mineral is exceptional or when total concentrations for geochemical or petrological stud-
(trace levels of elements) are required, please contact the laboratory for assistance in selecting the best possible
ies (trace levels of elements) are required, please contact the laboratory for assistance in selecting the best
digestion/ pretreatment
possible digestion/ method formethod
pretreatment your purpose
for your(e.g. total (e.g.
purpose digestion
totalMethod 307P/M,
digestion MethodXRF Method
307P/M, 175X;
XRF see
Method
Whole RockWhole
175X; see Analysis;).
Rock Analysis;).

The XRF
The XRF technique
techniqueisisalso a versatile
also tooltool
a versatile in the
in analysis of theof
the analysis base
themetals (Method(Method
base metals 175X). For moreFor
175X). informa-
more
tion on the XRF technique see the section on Petrological Analyses.
information on the XRF technique see the section on Petrological Analyses.

In addition to classical geochemical methods, a selection of selective leaches (using water extraction, ammo-
In addition to classical geochemical methods, a selection of selective leaches (using water extraction,
nium acetate, pyrophosphate etc.) combined with ICP-MS-analysis is also available for geochemical explora-
ammonium acetate, pyrophosphate etc.) combined with ICP-MS-analysis is also available for geochemical
tion of buried ore deposits. The set of elements is comparable to method 511MP or 515MP.
exploration of buried ore deposits. The set of elements is comparable to method 511MP or 515MP.
Elements in specific mineral phases of the sample can also be determined, such as Ni in the sulphide phase
or elements
Elements in the carbonate
in specific phase of
mineral phases of the
the sample
sample.
can also be determined, such as Ni in the sulphide phase or
elements in the carbonate phase of the sample.
Special methods are available e.g. for the determination of mercury, total sulphur and carbon (Combustion;
Method 810L) or sulphur and carbon mineral phases.
Special methods are available e.g. for the determination of mercury, total sulphur and carbon (Combustion;
Method 810L) or sulphur and carbon mineral phases.

Volatiles
Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium
pretreatment weight limit method
method

Combustion Hg -Analyzer 0.1 g Hg 0.005 ppm 822L

technique

Gravimetric 1g Loss on ignition 0.01 % 813G

Ignition o
at 1000 C

Combustion S/C-Analyzer 0.2 g S 0.01 % 810L

technique C 0.01 % 811L

Determination of carbonate carbon and non-carbonate carbon

C-Analyzer 0.5 C-tot. 100 ppm 811L

Combustion
1.0 g C-carb. 100
technique
C-noncarb. 100 816L
Treatment with HCl

22
 ADDITIONAL ANALYSES

Base metals in sulphides

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

pretreatment weight limit method
method

Ammonium Citrate- ICP-OES 0.15 g Cu 10 ppm 240P

H2O2 - leach Ni 10 ppm
Co 10 ppm
Fe 100 ppm
S 50 ppm

0,15 g Cu 5 ppm 250P

Bromine-Methanol- FAAS Ni
leach Co
Fe

Comparison of the leaching efficiency of different digestion methods in the analysis of ultramafic
rock samples with varying contents of sulphide- and silicate-Ni.

2500

2000

Ammonium citrate+H2O2-leach
Ascorbic acid+H2O2-leach
1500
Digestion w ith 7M nitric acid
Ni (ppm)

Aqua regia digestion

Peroxide fusion
1000 Bromine+methanol

500

0
E

I
G

J
F
C

H
A

Other parameters

Specific gravity Gas

3
pycnometer SG 0,01g/cm 830G

Magnetization Satmagan Fe3O4 0,01% 891G

23
PETROLOGICAL ANALYSES

Petrological analyses
PETROLOGICAL ANALYSES
Whole rock analyses are carried out using high precision methods applying state-ofthe-art instrumentation
(XRF, ICP-OES, ICP-MS).

Major, minor and many trace elements are determined by XRF. Determinations are made on pressed
powder pellets (Method 175X). The XRF analysis can be supplemented by determination of the rare earth
elements (Method 307M, package B) and other trace elements by ICP-MS and/or ICP-OES after the total
digestion of the sample (package A). PGE at low concentration levels (Method 714M) can be included for
petrological studies. Carbon (Method 811L) and loss on ignition (Method 813G) are recommended for
complete whole rock analysis. Individual determinations, which are often required in whole rock analysis,
+ -
such as iron (II), fluoride, H2O and H2O , are also available.

The XRF method is applicable to rocks and soil samples, such as sand, gravel, till and sediments. Technical
products and ash of similar composition can also be analysed. The prerequisite for applicability of the XRF
method is that the chemical composition of the sample remains unchanged during the fine grinding (< 10 m)
as the pressed powder pellet is prepared. Samples containing > 20 % S cannot be analysed by this method.

24
 PETROLOGICAL ANALYSES

Whole rock analysis

Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

Decomposition weight limit (ppm) method
pretreatment method

Pressed powder pellets XRF 7.0 g Al 100 175X

As 30
Ba 20
Determination of Bi 30
carbon is also Ca 50
recommended Ce 30
Cl 100
(Method 811L). Cr 30
Cu 20
Fe 200
Ga 30
K 50
La 30
Mg 200
Mn 40
Mo 10
Na 500
Nb 10
Ni 20
P 60
Pb 30
Rb 10
S 100
Sb 30
Sc 30
Si 100
Sn 30
Sr 10
Th 10
Ti 30
U 10
V 30
Y 10
Zn 20
Zr 10

Precious metals

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

weight limit (ppb) method
pretreatment method

ICP-MS 15 g Au 0.5 714M

NiS-Fire Assay Pd 1
Te-coprecipitation Pt 0.1
Rh 1
Ir 0.1
Ru 2
(Os 1) Optional

25
PETROLOGICAL ANALYSES

Rare earth elements

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium
pretreatment method weight limit (ppm) method

ICP-MS 0.2 g Ce 0.1 308M

HF-HClO4-digestion Dy 0.1
Lithium metaborate- Er 0.15
Sodium perborate Eu 0.1
fusion Gd 0.15
Ho 0.1
La 0.1
Lu 0.1
Nd 0.2
Pr 0.1
Sm 0.2
Tb 0.1
Tm 0.1
Yb 0.15
Sc 0.5
Y 0.1
U 0.2
Th 0.5

Additional elements:

Co 0.5 308M
Hf 0.5
Nb 0.2
Rb 0.2
Ta 0.2
V 0.5
Zr 0.5

For other elements contact laboratory

26
 PETROLOGICAL ANALYSES

Individual determinations for whole rock analysis

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

pretreatment method weight limit (%) method

1g LOI 0.01 813G

Ignition Gravimetric Loss on
ignition
o
1000 C

H2O analyzer 0.5 g Moisture 0.01 815L

Combustion
Cryst.water 0.01
technique

2+
Titrimetric 0.5 g Fe 0.02 301T
Acid digestion
HF - H2SO4

-
Potentiometric 0.1 g F 0.01 725I
NaOH-fusion

27
INDUSTRIAL MINERAL ANALYSES

INDUSTRIAL MINERAL ANALYSES

Determination of hydrochloric acid soluble elements

(Recommended method)

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

pretreatment method weight limit (ppm)
method

ICP-AES 0.1 g Al 200 407P

Hydrochloric acid Ca 600
digestion Mg 150
Fe 150
Mn 2

Determination of hydrochloric acid soluble elements and

insoluble residue of the sample

Decomposition Determination Sample Elements Detection Labtium

pretreatment method weight limit (ppm)
method

ICP-AES 1.0 g Al 200 406P

Hydrochloric acid Ca 400
digestion Mg 100
Fe 100
Mn 1

Gravimetric 1.0 g Insoluble 0.3 % 406G

residue

28
 CHARACTERISATION OF WASTE

CHARACTERISATION OF WASTE
Leaching tests
Compliance test for leaching of granular waste materials and sludges EN 12457-1
EN 12457-2
EN 12457-3
EN 12457-4

Leaching behaviour test. Up-flow percolation test CEN/TS 14405

pH and EC EN 12506

Element analyses by ICP-OES and ICP-MS EN 12506

Hg EN 17852

Anions EN 12506
EN 13370

TDS EN 15216

DOC EN 13370

Acid Generation Potential Evaluation

Draft:
AcidBase Accounting (ABA). Static test for sulfidic waste.
CEN/TC WI292053
Neutralisation Potential, NP
Acid Potential, AP
Neutralisation Potential Ratio, NPR
Net Neutralisation Potential, NNP

Net Acid Generation (NAG) AMIRA

Single NAG ARD Test Handbook
Sequential NAG Australia

pH EN 12506

Total Sulfur (pyrolysis) ISO 15178

Total Carbon (pyrolysis) CEN15104

Carbonate Carbon EN 13137 (Mod.)

29
SAMPLE MANAGEMENT AND STORAGE

Sample management
SAMPLE MANAGEMENTandAND
storage
STORAGE

Systematic and well-organised sample archiving is not always thought to be included in the quality
management of an exploration project. Good archiving helps the future retrieval of samples for e.g. feasibility
testing and replicate or umpire analysis. During future audits of the project, well organised archiving is one of
the fundamental issues. At Labtium special attention is paid on labelling and storing of all materials. The
laboratory samples are placed in plastic ampoules and stored in impact resistant styrofoam cases. Pulps and
/or rejects are stored in sealed plastic bags in pallets. All the packing materials except for pallets are
included in the prices.

Sample batch reception (901) includes checking the sample numbering, sorting etc. and packing materials.

The cost for long term storage of drill cores, rejects and pulps (906) and laboratory samples in vials (907)
can be negotiated.

If the client does not want the rejects and pulps to be returned a waste management levy is invoiced (902).
The disposal of hazardous materials is invoiced on costs (903).

If sample batches are arriving in the laboratory highly disorganised the laboratory is forced to invoice also the
reorganising of the field samples (904). Also if the sample bags or containers are damaged, the replacement
of the samples to new containers has to be invoiced (905).

Reception fee for a batch of samples 901

902
Waste disposal fee for reject sample materials

Disposal fee of hazardous wastes 903

Organising received disorganised samples 904

Removing samples from damaged/unsuitable containers to 905

new containers/bags

Storage of pulps/rejects after 1 months from reporting 906

Storage of laboratory samples after 1 months from 907

reporting

30
 ABBREVIATIONS

Abbreviations
ABBREVIATIONS

Analytical
Analytical Description
Description Labtium
Labtium code
code
technique
technique

GFAAS
GFAAS Atomic
Atomic Absorption
Absorption Spectrometry,
Spectrometry, electrothermal
electrothermal atomisation
atomisation U
U

FAAS
FAAS Atomic
Atomic Absorption
Absorption Spectrometry,
Spectrometry, flame
flame atomisation
atomisation A
A

CVAAS
CVAAS Atomic
Atomic Absorption
Absorption Spectrometry,
Spectrometry, atomisation
atomisation by
by H
H
Cold
Cold vapour
vapour generation
generation

XRF
XRF Wavelength
Wavelength Dispersive
Dispersive X-ray
X-ray Fluorescence
Fluorescence Spectrometry
Spectrometry X
X

ICP-OES
ICP-OES Inductively
Inductively Coupled
Coupled Plasma
Plasma Optical
Optical Emission
Emission Spectrometry
Spectrometry P
P

ICP-MS
ICP-MS Inductively
Inductively Coupled
Coupled Plasma
Plasma Mass
Mass Spectrometry
Spectrometry M
M

S/C-ANALYZER
S/C-ANALYZER Combustion,
Combustion, IR-detection,
IR-detection, Sulphur
Sulphur or
or Carbon
Carbon analyser
analyser L
L

-9
Units
Units ng
ng = 10 g
= 10
-9
g
-6
g
g== 10
10 -3g
-6
g
mg
mg = 10 g
= 10
-3
g
ppb
ppb == ng/g
ng/g = = g/kg
g/kg =
= mg/t
mg/t
ppm = g/g = mg/kg =
ppm = g/g = mg/kg = g/t
g/t

References
REFERENCES
Juvonen
Juvonen R.,
R., Kallio
Kallio E.
E. and
and Lakomaa
Lakomaa T.T. (1994)
(1994) .Determination
.Determination of
of precious
precious metals
metals in
in rocks
rocks by
by inductively
inductively
coupled
coupled plasma
plasma mass
mass spectrometry
spectrometry using
using nickel
nickel sulphide
sulphide concentration.
concentration. Comparison
Comparison with
with other
other pre-
pre-
treatment
treatment methods.
methods. Analyst119
Analyst119 (1994),
(1994), p.
p. 617
617 -- 621.
621.

Juvonen
Juvonen R.R. and
and Kontas
Kontas E.(1999).
E.(1999). Comparison
Comparison ofof three
three analytical
analytical methods
methods in
in the
the determination
determination of
of gold
gold in
in
six Finnish gold ores, including a study of sample preparation and sampling, Journal of Geochemical
six Finnish gold ores, including a study of sample preparation and sampling, Journal of Geochemical
Exploration
Exploration 65
65 (1999)
(1999) 219
219 -- 229.
229.

Kontas
Kontas E.,
E., Niskavaara
Niskavaara H.
H. and
and Virtasalo
Virtasalo J.,
J., (1990).
(1990). Gold,
Gold, palladium
palladium and
and tellurium
tellurium in
in South
South African,
African, Chines
Chines
and
and Japanese
Japanese geochemical
geochemical reference
reference samples,
samples, Geostandards
Geostandards Newsletter,
Newsletter, 14(1990),
14(1990), 477
477 -- 478.
478.

Kontas
Kontas E.E. (editor)(1993).
(editor)(1993). Analytical
Analytical methods
methods for
for determining
determining gold
gold in
in geological
geological samples,
samples, Geological
Geological Survey
Survey
of
of Finland,
Finland, Report
Report of
of Investigations
Investigations 114
114 (1993),
(1993), pp
pp 41.
41.

Niskavaara
Niskavaara H.H. (1990).
(1990). Reductive
Reductive coprecipitation
coprecipitation as
as aa separation
separation method
method for
for the
the determination
determination of
of gold,
gold,
palladium,
palladium, platinum, rhodium, silver, selenium and tellurium in geological samples by graphite furnace atomic
platinum, rhodium, silver, selenium and tellurium in geological samples by graphite furnace atomic
absorption
absorption spectrometry,
spectrometry, Analytica
Analytica Chimica
Chimica Acta,
Acta, 231(1990),
231(1990), 273
273 -- 282.
282.

Nurmi
Nurmi P.A.,
P.A., Lestinen,
Lestinen, P.
P. and
and Niskavaara,
Niskavaara, H. H. (1991).
(1991). Geochemical
Geochemical Characteristics
Characteristics of
of mesothermal
mesothermal gold
gold
deposits
deposits in
in Fennoscandian
Fennoscandian Shield
Shield and
and a a comparison
comparison with
with selected
selected Canadian
Canadian and
and Australian
Australian deposits.
deposits.
Geological
Geological Survey
Survey of
of Finland,
Finland, Bulletin
Bulletin 351,
351, Espoo
Espoo 1991,
1991, 101
101 pp.
pp.

31
 ACCREDITATION
ACCREDITATION
Labtium Ltd. (formerly The Geolaboratory of the Geological Survey of Finland), is an
accreditaded testing laboratory. The accreditation according to ISO/IEC 17025 was
received
Labtium originally
Ltd. (formerly TheinGeolaboratory
1994 from the Finnish
of the Accreditation
Geological Service isFINAS
Survey of Finland), at the MIKES
an accreditaded testing
(The Centre for Metrology and Accreditation). The accreditation code of Labtium is FINAS
laboratory. The accreditation according to ISO/IEC 17025 was received originally in 1994 from the Finnish
T025. Service
Accreditation The FINAS
up-to-date scope(TheofCentre
at the MIKES thefor Metrology
accreditation can be The
and Accreditation). found in
accredita-
http://www.finas.fi/Scopes/T025_M17_2008.htm and then FINAS service.
tion code of Labtium is FINAS T025. The up-to-date scope of the accreditation can be found in http://www.
finas.fi/Scopes/T025_M17_2008.htm and then FINAS service.
The FINAS accredited bodies may state in their reports and certificates that they are
accredited by FINAS, which is a signatory of the EA (European co-operation for
The FINAS accredited bodies may state in their reports and certificates that they are accredited by FINAS,
Accreditation), ILAC (International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation
which is a signatory of the EA (European co-operation for Accreditation), ILAC (International
http://www.ilac.org/) or IAF (International Accreditation Forum Inc.; http://www.iaf.nu/) Laboratory
Accreditation
recognitionCooperation
agreement. http://www.ilac.org/) or IAF (International
Thus a global acceptance Accreditation
and recognition Forum
of the Inc.; http://www.
accreditation and
iaf.nu/) recognition
quality systemagreement. Thus
of Labtium Ltd is a global acceptance and recognition of the accreditation and quality
achieved.
system of Labtium Ltd is achieved.
Labtium Ltd is continuously participating in independent, international proficiency tests in
the Ltd
Labtium mineral sector runparticipating
is continuously by e.g. Geostats Pty Ltd, international
in independent, Australia and the GeoPT
proficiency testssponsored by the
in the mineral sec-
tor run by e.g. Geostats Pty Ltd, Australia and the GeoPT sponsored by the International Associationaof
International Association of Geoanalysts (IAG). In addition Labtium participates in
proficiency
Geoanalysts testInfor
(IAG). Canadian
addition accredited
Labtium mineral
participates testing laboratories
in a proficiency (CANMET
test for Canadian PTP-MAL).
accredited mineral
These tests are used to evaluate the performance and validity of our methods
testing laboratories (CANMET PTP-MAL). These tests are used to evaluate the performance and validity in
comparison to other international mineral testing laboratories. The reports are available to
of our methods in comparison to other international mineral testing laboratories. The reports are available
clients on request.
to clients on request.

Juha Virtasalo

JuhaQuality
Virtasalo
Manager
Quality Manager

Labtium Oy / Betonimiehenkuja 4 FIN- 02150 Espoo FINLAND/ Tel: +358 10 653 8000

Labtium Oy / Betonimiehenkuja 4 FIN- 02150 Espoo FINLAND/ Tel: +358 10 653 8000

32
 STANDARD SERVICE AGREEMENT 31.1.2008

1. APPLICABILITY AND DEFINITIONS 5. The parameter and uncertainty limits for the re- 3. The client may not divulge any confidential infor- 2. Labtium is audited by an official accreditation
sults of analyses and measurements reported by mation or business or trade secrets received from organ. Audits of the client shall always be subject
1. These terms apply to the services ordered by the cli- Labtium are valid for the typical application areas or learned about Labtium in connection with the to a written agreement and Labtium shall be given
ent and provided by Labtium Oy (hereafter Labtium), of the method in question as applied in Labtiums assignment, nor use such information in their own the opportunity to comment the report. The audit
unless otherwise agreed in writing. process work. Clients must check, to their own sat- business operations. report may not be released to a third party without
isfaction, the applicability of said limits to their own Labtiums written consent.
2. Hereafter written and in writing shall include problem configuration or testing scheme. 9. OTHER RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
traceable / verifiable e-mails and other electronic com- OF THE PARTIES 3. The results of comparison tests performed by
munications. 6. Labtium shall keep the assay/test reports and third parties may not be published without Labtiums
other material of the agreed assignment for a period 1. The client shall furnish Labtium with the neces- written consent.
2. TENDER of three (3) years after termination of the agreement. sary basic information and, for each separate as-
signment, such equipment and other resources as 12. USING THE CLIENTS NAME
1. Labtiums written tender is valid for one (1) month 6. OWNERSHIP AND RIGHT OF USE agreed. AS A REFERENCE
from the date of issue, unless otherwise stated in
the tender. 1. Any documentation given to Labtium in connec- 2. The client has a right to monitor the progress of 1. Labtium reserves the right to use the clients
tion with sample material is the property of the cli- the assignment. name as a commercial reference, unless permis-
3. AGREEMENT, ORDER AND ORDER ent and shall be returned to them or destroyed on sion is expressly denied by the client. Such refer-
CONFIRMATION instructions from the client after one (1) month of the 3. The parties may establish a project organisation ences shall not present information on the location
date of the assignment report. The cost of shipping for carrying out the assignment. The composition, of the sample find or assignment volume data.
1. An agreement comes into force when the client or disposal is borne by the client. Any storage in ex- tasks and responsibilities of such a group, as well
and Labtium have signed a separate agreement, cess of one month is subject to agreement and a as any changes, are subject to a separate agree- 13. FORCE MAJEURE
when Labtium has confirmed an order or when the separate charge. ment in writing.
client informs Labtium in writing that they accept the 1. A party shall be released from the obligations un-
binding tender submitted by Labtium. 2. When the assignment is completed and paid for 4. The parties shall inform each other without delay der this agreement and the liability to compensate
in full, the reports, assays and other documentation of anything that may jeopardise the carrying out of for damages in the event that the contractual obliga-
2. Labtium shall at all times confirm orders in writing become the exclusive property of the client. the assignment or cause unforeseen costs. tions have been breached or neglected for reasons
and shall act according to order specifications, un- beyond the control of the party. Sufficient grounds
less the client suggests changes to the order in writ- 3. Labtium use mainly their own methods for analy- 5. Labtium shall complete the assignment in the for release from obligations under this agreement
ing and the parties agree on said changes before ses, assays and tests. The methodology is the agreed period of time. Where no delivery time has arise in circumstances that are such that they could
assignment work is begun. exclusive property of Labtium. The client does not been agreed, the assignment shall be completed not be foreseen when this agreement was con-
have the right to divulge to a third party anything in without undue delay. cluded and are beyond the control of the parties and
3. The agreement cant be transferred to a third connection with assignment reports, apart from a the effects of which cant be avoided or overcome
party without the written consent of the other party. general description of the methodology. 6. Labtium shall assiduously and professionally per- by reasonable means. Such circumstances include
This does not limit the right of Labtium to use the form the assignment as defined in the agreement war, insurrection, requisition or confiscation, embar-
services of subcontractors. 4. Where Labtium makes use of the clients method- and shall take care that competent personnel is as- go, natural disaster, suspension of transport or en-
ology, this is the exclusive property of the client and signed to the work. Labtium takes full responsibility ergy distribution, industrial dispute, fire, interrupted
4. Any changes or additions to this agreement are the relevant documentation shall be returned to the for the work of a subcontractor. communications or circumstances of a similar and
subject to approval, in writing, by both parties. client or destroyed. Use of the clients methodology unusual nature beyond the control of the parties. A
is always subject to a written agreement. Labtium 7. Labtium reserves the right to extend the process- delayed sub-contractor delivery or the bankruptcy of
5. In the event that two or more contractual docu- takes no responsibility for the applicability of the ing time of the assignment in the event that work is a sub-contractor is also defined as force majeure.
ments show conflicting or contradictory terms, their clients methodology. Labtium reserves the right to delayed for reasons beyond the control of Labtium
order of precedence shall be: 1) written agreement, decline to use methodology that they deem unsuit- or due to the action or neglect of the client. 2. If an obligation under this agreement is delayed
2) order confirmation, 3) order, 4) tender, 5) general able for the assignment or unsafe. for any of the reasons given in 13.1, the time limit
terms and condition and 6) invitation to tender. 8. If the performance of an assignment is altered, given to perform the obligations is extended as far
5. Where Labtium pays part of the assignment delayed or interrupted due to the action or neglect of as is reasonable in the circumstances.
4. SAMPLE MATERIAL costs, Labtiums rights to the results shall be deter- the client, Labtium reserves the right to bill the client
mined in advance and separately in each case. for costs and damages arising thereof.
1. Samples shall be delivered at the clients expense 14. TERMINATING THE AGREEMENT
to a unit specified in the Labtium order confirma- 6. The expertise gained from assignments that form 9. As an employer, Labtium is responsible for the
tion or otherwise indicated in writing by Labtium. part of research and development projects is the statutory social security, insurance and other costs 1. Either party may terminate this agreement if the
Labtium is responsible for shipping samples be- property of the client and Labtium reserves the right of their personnel, as well as industrial safety, wher- other party materially fails to meet the obligations of
tween Labtium units, unless otherwise agreed. to use the professional skills and experience gained ever the assignment work is carried out. this agreement.
from assignments in their business operations.
2. The client is under an obligation to inform Labtium 10. Labtium is liable for any direct damage or loss 2. Should the client fail to meet the obligations of
of any potential health or safety hazards inherent 7. The ownership of any equipment procured for an to the client arising from Labtiums deliberate or this agreement, Labtium has the right to suspend
in the samples (radiation, particles that constitute assignment and financed by the client, shall be sub- consequential mistakes or neglect. The client shall assignment work until it is determined whether the
a health hazard etc.). Labtium reserves the right to ject to a separate agreement. be liable for any damage or loss suffered by a third breach of agreement shall be grounds for termina-
suspend sample processing and, if necessary, ter- party as an unavoidable consequence of adherence tion.
minate this agreement, if any such hazard becomes 7. CHARGES AND BILLING to the agreement and which, even with the exercis-
evident during the work. ing of all possible care and diligence, is outside the 3. Labtium has the right to terminate the agreement
1. Unless the cost or service price has been oth- control of Labtium. in the event that the client is obviously insolvent or
3. The client is responsible for ensuring that sam- erwise agreed, Labtium shall charge the client for has entered into bankruptcy proceedings.
ple shipments are properly marked and shipped in the assignment or product as set out in the order 11. The liability of Labtium, their representatives
appropriate packaging. Labtium reserves the right confirmation. and personnel, shall at all events be limited to the 4. Both parties have the right to terminate the agree-
to present a separate bill at an hourly rate for extra amount paid to Labtium for the assignment. Labtium ment in the event that the obligations under the
work arising from damaged sample packages and/ 2. The cost estimate of the assignment is stated in shall not be liable for any indirect or consequential agreement become impossible to perform or are
or mixed up sample codes. the order confirmation and is binding, unless sample damage or loss. delayed for more than six months by reason of force
quantities or assignment parameters are changed majeure. Labtium reserves the right to terminate
4. Unused sample material is the property of the cli- or the assignment is accepted on the basis of billing 12. The expert opinions expressed by Labtium are the agreement, regardless of the aforementioned
ent and shall, as the client chooses, be returned to at an hourly rate. A separate bill shall be presented based on comparing the observations and materi- time limit, if the delay is of material significance to
them or destroyed after one (1) month of the date of for travel costs and other assignment-related costs. als at their disposal, as well as generally known Labtium.
the assignment report. The cost of shipping or dis- laws, regulations and instructions. Expert opinions
posal is borne by the client. Any storage in excess 3. Overtime shall be subject to a separate agree- expressed by Labtium must not be taken out of con- 5. If the agreement is terminated, the client shall pay,
of a month is subject to agreement and a separate ment. Where overtime or special arrangements are text and must always be quoted in whole. Labtium at the agreed rate, for such parts of the assignment
charge. necessary for reasons outside of Labtiums control takes no responsibility for interpretations of expert that have been completed and approved or, if the
or due to changes in assignment or additional work opinions or conclusions drawn from such opinions, parties consent to continue with the assignment
5. Appropriate packaging materials, designed to ordered by the client, Labtium shall present a sepa- or for the actions taken by others on the basis of after the agreement is terminated, until the assign-
protect the clients samples, are subject to a sepa- rate bill for added costs. such opinions. ment work is completed.
rate charge, unless otherwise agreed.
4. Should the nature of the assignment or the sched- 13. Any claims on Labtium must be submitted in 6. If this agreement is terminated as a consequence
6. Labtium shall not be held responsible for dam- ule be changed, the assignment cost estimate and writing within one (1) month from delivery of the as- of the clients action or neglect to perform an obli-
age to the clients samples stored on the premises of bill shall be reviewed correspondingly. signment report or material to the client. gation, Labtium is entitled to compensation for the
Labtium or their subcontractor unless the damage is costs and damage arising from termination of the
demonstrably caused by neglect on Labtiums part. 5. In the event that the client and Labtium together 10. LIABILITY FOR RISK agreement.
perceive material changes in the cost level during
5. REPORTS an agreement period, the cost estimates and charg- 1. The liability for the risk of accidental damage to 15. DISPUTES
es shall be correspondingly reviewed from that date. the assignment results is transferred to the client
1. All assignments include a written and signed re- at the time of delivery. If delivery is delayed by the 1. Any disputes arising from this agreement that the
port. Reports or parts thereof can be communicated 6. Payment is due on the due date given on the bill. client, the liability for risk is transferred to the client parties are unable to settle by negotiation, shall be
by e-mail, subject to separate agreement in each Overdue payment shall be subject to interest as set at the latest time delivery should have taken place. tried in the Espoo District Court.
case. out in the Interest Act of Finland. Labtium reserves
the right to suspend work on the assignment if pay- 2. The interpretation of provisions of this agreement
2. For reasons of confidentiality, reports will be sent ments are overdue and, if significantly overdue, to 11. QUALITY ASSURANCE, AUDITS and the settlement of disputes shall be based on
to only one mailing address and one e-mail address terminate this agreement. AND THIRD PARTY COMPARISON TESTS Finnish law in force at the time the agreement was
given in writing by the client. signed.
8. CONFIDENTIALITY 1. Labtium is a FINAS-accredited test laboratory
3. Reports on assays and analyses produced by (T025), which conforms to the ISO 17025 quality
Labtium may not be copied or used in whole or in 1. The parties undertake to treat as confidential any system standard. Test and assay reports are issued
part for the purpose of presenting said reports as information as well as business and trade secrets with the accreditation symbol and the report identi-
issued by an accredited laboratory. received from or learned about the other party. fies which results have been gained using accred-
ited process methods. When assay and test reports
4. Where a sample is not taken by Labtium, the re- 2. Labtium may not release the results of an assign- are used as reference material, this information may
sults of the analysis concern only the specific sam- ment or material connected thereto to a third party not be altered or omitted.
ple, or part thereof, delivered to Labtium. unless so instructed in writing by the client.

33
Labtium Oy/Ab/Ltd.

Business ID 2128301-1
tel. +358 10 65 38000

www.labtium.fi

E-mail: firstname.lastname@labtium.fi

Contacts:
Heikki Niskavaara Lea Hmlinen

Business area director. Business Area director

Geology, Exploration and Mining. Environment and Industry.
+358 10 65 38601 +358 10 65 38301

Espoo Raahe

Hanna Kahelin, Laboratory manager Anitta Massinen, Laboratory supervisor

+358 10 65 38103 +358 10 65 38901

(Betonimiehenkuja 4)
PL 57 Rantakatu 4
02151 ESPOO 92100 RAAHE

Kuopio Outokumpu

Susanna Arvilommi, Laboratory supervisor Pekka Parvinen, Laboratory supervisor

+358 10 65 38319 +358 10 65 38501

(Neulaniementie 5) (Tutkijankatu 1)
PL 1500 PL 45
70211 KUOPIO 83501 OUTOKUMPU

Rovaniemi Sodankyl

Auli Ojala, Laboratory supervisor Anja Autio, Laboratory supervisor

+358 1065 38607 +358 10 65 38801

(Raidetie 1) (Poikajuntintie 34)

(96900 SAARENKYL) PL 97
PL 8601 99601 SODANKYL
96101 ROVANIEMI