Sampling and assaying minerals are essential steps in mining geology and exploration. They help you determine the quality, quantity, and distribution of mineral resources in a given area. However, sampling and assaying minerals can also be challenging, time-consuming, and costly. How can you improve your methods and results? Here are some tips and best practices to consider.
Depending on your project objectives, budget, and site conditions, you may need to use different sampling methods to collect representative and reliable samples of minerals. Some of the common methods are grab sampling, channel sampling, drill core sampling, and soil sampling. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so you need to weigh them carefully and follow the appropriate protocols and standards. For example, grab sampling is quick and easy, but it may not reflect the true grade and variability of the mineral deposit. Drill core sampling is more accurate and comprehensive, but it is also more expensive and requires more equipment and expertise.
You need to understand that there are three facets to sampling/assaying: cheap, fast, accurate.........you can ONLY achieve two.......you can have cheap and fast (not accurate); you can have cheap and accurate (not fast); or you can have fast and accurate (not cheap).....98% of mine managers will never understand this
Once you have collected your samples, you need to prepare and store them properly to avoid contamination, degradation, or loss of valuable information. You should label, document, and catalog your samples clearly and consistently, using unique identifiers, barcodes, or tags. You should also split, crush, pulverize, and homogenize your samples to reduce their size and ensure uniformity. You should store your samples in sealed, durable, and labeled containers, and keep them in a secure and controlled environment until you send them to the laboratory for analysis.
Assaying is the process of determining the concentration and composition of minerals in your samples. There are many assay methods available, depending on the type, grade, and complexity of the minerals you want to analyze. Some of the common methods are fire assay, atomic absorption spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, and inductively coupled plasma. Each method has its strengths and limitations, so you need to choose the one that suits your needs and budget. You should also consider the accuracy, precision, sensitivity, and speed of the assay method, as well as the sample preparation requirements and the quality control measures.
You need to understand that there are three facets to sampling/assaying: cheap, fast, accurate.........you can ONLY achieve two.......you can have cheap and fast (not accurate); you can have cheap and accurate (not fast); or you can have fast and accurate (not cheap).....98% of mine managers will never understand this
The quality and reliability of your assay results depend largely on the laboratory you work with. You should choose a laboratory that has the necessary accreditation, certification, equipment, and expertise to perform the assay methods you need. You should also check the laboratory's reputation, track record, and references in the mining industry. You should communicate clearly with the laboratory about your project specifications, expectations, and deadlines. You should also review the laboratory's reports, data, and procedures, and verify their accuracy and consistency.
Technology and software can help you sample and assay minerals more effectively by enhancing your efficiency, productivity, and accuracy. For example, you can use portable or handheld devices, such as X-ray fluorescence analyzers or near-infrared spectrometers, to perform rapid and non-destructive assays on site. You can also use drones, satellites, or sensors to collect and transmit geospatial data and images of your sampling area. You can also use software applications, such as geostatistics, modeling, or visualization tools, to process, analyze, and interpret your assay data and results.
Sampling and assaying minerals are not static or one-time activities. They are dynamic and iterative processes that require constant learning and improvement. You should always monitor, evaluate, and adjust your sampling and assay methods and results, based on the feedback, data, and evidence you receive. You should also keep up with the latest trends, developments, and innovations in the field of mining geology and exploration. You should also network and collaborate with other mining engineers, geologists, and professionals, and share your knowledge, experience, and insights.