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Updated: Jul 12, 2026

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Atom Probe Tomography Analysis of Exsolved Mineral Phases
Published on: October 25, 2019
Alpha-particle activity of apollo 11 samples
Summary
Researchers analyzed rock samples using nuclear track plates, alpha-particle spectrometry, and electron microprobe. Preliminary findings show thorium concentration in zirconium-rich crystals and alpha track distribution related to breccia structures.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Nuclear Science
- Petrology
Background:
- Understanding elemental distribution and radioactive decay series in geological samples is crucial for radiometric dating and resource exploration.
- Accretionary lapilli are unique geological formations that provide insights into volcanic and impact processes.
- Previous studies have reported thorium and uranium content in these rock samples.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution and behavior of thorium and uranium in polished rock thin sections.
- To correlate alpha particle activity with geological features like accretionary lapilli.
- To assess the assumption of secular equilibrium in the thorium and uranium decay series within these samples.
Main Methods:
- Exposure of nine polished thin sections to nuclear track plates for alpha particle detection.
- Alpha-particle spectrometry analysis of three samples to quantify radioactive emissions.
- Electron microprobe examination of one sample for detailed mineralogical and elemental analysis.
Main Results:
- Alpha track distribution in a breccia sample forms a network associated with accretionary lapilli rims.
- Thorium is concentrated in micron-sized, zirconium-rich crystals within a coarse-grained crystalline rock.
- Measured alpha count rates are consistent with predicted values based on prior thorium and uranium content data.
Conclusions:
- The observed alpha track patterns suggest a relationship between radioactive elements and the formation of accretionary lapilli.
- The concentration of thorium in specific mineral phases indicates localized elemental enrichment processes.
- The agreement between measured and predicted alpha counts supports the hypothesis of secular equilibrium for thorium and uranium decay series in these rocks.
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