GeoChem (NO4.1)

The multi collector (MC)-ICP-MS at IFE’s Geochemical Analysis Lab can perform high-precision, high-resolution, and simultaneous measurements of isotope ratios in a wide range of isotope systems. Isotopes systems of interest include both traditional and non-traditional, stable and radiogenic isotopes (Sr, Pb and U, Li, Mg, Ca, Mg, Fe, Cd, Cu, Zn, and Ni), used for geo- and thermo-chronology, tracing fluid flow patterns, fingerprinting sources of materials, quantifying interactions in biogeochemical systems, and monitoring environmental systems.

Use of Sr-isotope analyses to look at fluid communication in a geological timescale within CO2 storage sites and oil/gas reservoirs. The method can reveal if and were barriers/baffles are and the data collected can also be used to calculate the extensions of the barriers and baffles both in vertical and lateral directions. Carbon and Oxygen isotopes can be measured in cemented barriers to reveal the history of the barriers (time and temperature of the cementations)

By coupling the MC-ICP-MS to IFE’s existing LA-HR-ICP-MS, the simultaneous analysis of novel isotopes and trace elements in solid materials can be achieved. The laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility for measuring isotopesystems to produce data to interprete: biogeochemical reaction rates and products, tracking fluid migration, evaluating fluid/rock interactions and detect CO2 leakage in cap rock.