New highly sensitive method for detecting gold at drill sites

Using advanced photonics, Dr Agneszka Zuber and Associate Professor Heike Ebendorff-Heidepriem's method can find gold nanoparticules at detection limits a hundred times lower than current methods such as X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). "We are working on two optical methods. One of them uses fluorescence and the other is absorption," says Dr Zuber.

"The most popular methods are XRF and XRD. These methods work but the problem is the level of detection is quite high – around five to ten parts per million. It means that some ore deposits can just be missed. Our aim is to detect gold in parts per billion." The project could save explorers from missed opportunities when drilling for gold. It's a timely project, as gold isn't limited to use in jewellery – it's an increasingly important and in-demand component in electronics and medical devices.

Read More: http://www.mining.com/web/new-highly-sensitive-method-for-detecting-gold-at-drill-sites/