Optical Microscopy
EES-1 has a wide range of optical microscopes, including standard petrographic scopes, binocular microscopes, a fluid inclusion microscope, and a cathodoluminescence microscope.
The fluid inclusion setup is a Fluid Inc. Fluid Inclusion Microscope. This instrument is used to determine homogenization and freezing temperatures of fluid inclusions trapped in minerals. Temperatures thus determined can be used as clues to conditions (both temperature and fluid salinity) of mineral formation.
The cathodoluminescence microscope is a Nuclide Cathodo-Luminescence Microscope. This instrument uses electron excitation in a He atmosphere to examine cathodo-luminescence in mineral grains. The instrument is particularly useful for detecting multiple growth stages in luminescing minerals, such as calcite and silica minerals.
For more information, contact Steve Chipera (505-667-1110 or chipera@lanl.gov).