Analysis of Silicate Rocks. Part 1: Routine Determination of Major Constituents

The analytical methods described in this report are those used in the Chemistry Laboratory of the Geology Division of the Research Council of Alberta for the routine analysis of silicate rocks. Methods are given for the determination of SiO2, Al2O3, Fe203, FeO, MgO, CaO, Na2O, K2O, loss on ignition, TiO2, P2O5 and MnO. All of the methods have been chosen on the basis of maximum rapidity and convenience consistent with adequate reliability. Included are the results of applying the methods to the analysis of U.S. Geological Survey Samples G-1 and W-1. The sources of error in the various individual determinations and the reliability of the analytical system as a whole are discussed.