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Atom Probe Tomography Analysis of Exsolved Mineral Phases

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Alpha-particle activity of apollo 11 samples.

K A Richardson, D S McCkay, W R Greenwood

Science (New York, N.Y.)

|January 30, 1970

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.

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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.