Physical property, geotechnical and geochemical characterization of unconsolidated sediments
This sedimentology laboratory provides analysis of unconsolidated sediments including Atterberg limits, complete grain size (sieving or particle size analyzer), calcite-dolomite, pore-water extraction, clay separation/fractionation and carbon content to name a few. Through implementation of special sieving protocols, possible contamination during sample preparation for geochemical analysis is reduced. The laboratory allows the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) to explore non-standard processing techniques and to customize analysis for given GSC projects.
Specialized analysis and method development.
Collaborative projects are treated on a case-by-case basis and selected through a proposal system. Projects must be aligned with, and contribute to, advancing laboratory strategic goals. They must also be closely aligned with the current Geological Survey of Canada program. Collaborative projects are undertaken on a cost-recovery basis.
- Construction (including building, civil engineering, specialty trades)
- Energy
- Environmental technologies and related services
- Mining, minerals and metals
Specialized labs and equipment
| Equipment | Function |
|---|---|
| Beckman Coulter LS 13 320 Particle Sizing Analyzer | Laser diffraction particle analysis from <0.017 µm to 2 mm |
| Retsch CAMSIZER (particle analyzer) | Dynamic digital image processing for determining grain size and shape of dry free flowing particles 0.030 to 30 mm |
| LECO CR-412 (carbon analyzer) | Determination of total carbon content by infrared spectrometry. Sediment combusted at 1350 degrees Celsius. |
| CM5014 CO2 Coulometer | The calcite fraction of carbonate minerals determined by coulometric titration |
| AccuPyc 1330 10cm3 Gas Pycnometer | Density and specific gravity |
| Heraeus™ Biofuge™ Stratos™ Centrifuge | Refrigerated centrifuge used in pore water extractions |