The Laboratory of Rare and Rare Earth Metals at the K.I. Satpaev Institute of Geological Sciences
The Laboratory of Rare and Rare Earth Metals at the K.I. Satpaev Institute of Geological Sciences specializes in comprehensive research focused on studying the chemical composition of rocks and ores, as well as the petrographic and mineralogical composition of rocks and ores. The main goal of the laboratory is to provide high-quality analytical services for the assessment and development of rare and rare earth metal deposits, contributing to the development of Kazakhstan’s mining industry. Key areas of activity:
Chemical analysis: Determining the content of various elements in rocks and ores, including rare and rare earth metals, using modern analytical methods.
Petrographic and mineralogical analysis: Studying the mineralogical composition of rocks and ores to identify their structure and properties.
Lithological and petrophysical studies: Analyzing the physical and mechanical properties of rocks, including their permeability, porosity, and strength.
Paleontological and biostratigraphic studies: Examining sedimentary deposits to determine their age and formation conditions.
Analysis of the physical and mechanical properties of soils: Assessing soil characteristics for use in construction and other industries.
Identification of substances and materials: Conducting identification of various substances and materials, issuing quality passports and test protocols.
Methods of research: The laboratory applies a wide range of modern analytical methods, including:
Optical emission spectroscopy with inductively coupled plasma
Atomic absorption spectrophotometry
X-ray fluorescence spectral analysis
Spectrophotometry
Thermographic analysis
Flame photometry
Transmission and scanning electron microscopy
Petrophysical analysis of cores and slurries
Palynological analysis
Microfaunal analysis
Analyzed products and materials: The laboratory conducts research on various materials, including:
Ores: polymetallic, rare-metal, black metals, rare earth
Minerals and micromineral inclusions
Concentrates of noble, non-ferrous, black, and rare metals
Technological by-products, tails, etc.
Rocks
Non-ferrous metals and their alloys, scrap and waste of non-ferrous metals
Steels, cast irons, scrap and waste of black metals
Ferroalloys
Soils
Crushed stone, building sand
Portland cement, refractory materials and products
Collaboration and services: The laboratory actively collaborates with various scientific and industrial organizations, providing materials analysis and research services. It also participates in interlaboratory experiments for certification analysis of standard substance samples. The activities of the Laboratory of Rare and Rare Earth Metals play a key role in the scientific work of the K.I. Satpaev Institute of Geological Sciences, contributing to the development of geological research and the efficient use of the country’s mineral resources.