Thin section, grain size, scanning electron microscope and XRD analyses are all provided in house for rapid turnaround with high quality results. Samples are prepared for thin section analysis by first impregnating the samples with epoxy to augment sample cohesion and to prevent loss of material during the grinding procedure. A blue dye is added to the epoxy to highlight the pore spaces. Each of the samples is mounted on a frosted glass slide and then cut and ground in water to a thickness of approximately 30 microns. Standard thin sections are stained for carbonates (Alizarin Red-S and potassium ferricyanide) and potassium feldspar (sodium cobaltinitrite).

A general thin section description includes a complete description of the mineral constituents of the rock, allochems, texture, sorting (or crystal size range), porosity types and the type and abundance of pore-filling cements or alteration products. A detailed thin section description includes all the information in the general description, plus a 250-point count analysis to quantify grain types, matrix, cements, and pore types. The report consists of a written discussion of the sample set, a description of each sample, and descriptions of the photomicrographs.(2 color photomicrographs are included).

Cathodoluminescence
An electron beam is used to activate emission from trace elements in the mineral structure. Trace elements in cement phases are used to determine the diagenetic history of sediments.

Epifluorescence Petrography
A thin section is impregnated with autofluorescing epoxy and is analyzed under UV light. The fluorescence is particularly useful in highlighting microfractures and microporosity and their relation (interconnectedness) to the macropore system.