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Precision in mineral separation and analysis

Location: Burnaby Building

The Mineral Separation Laboratory is used to separate and pick crystal grains from crushed rock for palynology slides.

Palynology – the study of dust or particles – helps us understand how the earth was formed and could help tackle climate change and solve declining energy sources.

Students use this lab on courses including BSc (Hons) Earth Science and MRes Science. The lab is also used by PhD candidates and supports research carried out by staff and students in the Crustal Evolution Research Group, which is studying the origins of plate tectonics, or continental drift.

Equipment and amenities

  • Holman Wilfley separating table to separate crushed minerals
  • Gravity and heavy liquid separation facilities to separate grains by density
  • Research grade microscopes for picking accessory grains
  • Electro-magnet based separation system for picking magnetic material

Related facilities

Palaeontology and Advanced Microscopy Laboratories

Examine rock, mineral and fossil specimens using the specialist kit in these labs, such as transmitted light, polarising and scanning electron microscopes, and explore processes including acid digestion, air abrasion and microfossil extraction.

Students examining fossils in palaeontology lab
Learn more about the labs

Environmental Chemistry Analysis Laboratory

Use the equipment in this lab to identify and analyse chemicals and biochemicals in surface water, groundwater and soil, so you can develop strategies to minimise and remove their harmful environmental effects.

Only to be used in relation to Environmental Technology, Civil Engineering and Surveying. Staff submission so please check quality before use.
Explore the lab

Where to find us

Mineral Separation Laboratory
Burnaby Building BB2.15
Burnaby Road
Portsmouth
PO1 3QL