Thin section analyses

Thin section analyses include:

• sample collection for analysis

• sample preparation (at an outside grinding workshop)

• observations under polarizing microscope

Analyses are done both in normal and reflected light. Specimens which are used can be normal, alizarine stained (for carbonate minerals determination), or based on coloured resin (for better pore space observation). 

Microscope analyses provide information about:

• mineral content of the rock

• structure and texture of the rock

• cement type

• matrix type (minerals, type of pore space filling)

• volume of pore space,

• type of non-transparent minerals (by using reflected light)

Microscope analyses are summarised in reports which contain description and photographs of examined rocks.

Optionally, microscope analyses can be supplemented by X-ray diffraction analyses (for mineral composition determination) and analyses in scanning electron microscope with microanalysis system (SEM-EDS).