Research Facilities

Center for Geochemical Analysis

Overview

Geochemical analysis equipment

The Center for Geochemical Analysis specializes in the determination of trace metals in a variety of materials including water samples, environmental samples (e.g., soil, sludge), and most rock types. The CGA employs two Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) Mass Spectrometers, an ICP Optical Emission Spectrometer, and two specialized Ion Chromatography Systems that work with the ICP-MS and independently for the determination of speciation for both metals and anions. Combined, the CGA provides analyses of low abundance elements in water, soils, chemicals, biologic materials, and rocks for the greater USF community, national and global research institutions, and federal and local government agencies.

Major Equipment and Instrumentation

  • Perkin Elmer Nexion 2000P Quadrupole Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer coupled to an ESI Prep FAST IC
  • Perkin Elmer Avio 200 Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometer
  • Perkin-Elmer Elan DRCe Quadrupole Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer with coupled Teledyne-Cetac LSX 213 Laser Ablation System
  • Thermo-Dionex Integrion High Performance Ion Chromatograph

Sample Preparation

The CGA maintains two analytical preparation laboratories for the routine dissolution of rock, soil, and biologicals for compositional study via mixed acid attack, chelating extraction, or classical fluxed-fusion methods. Our second laboratory is maintained as a "clean" B-, Li-, and Be-free space. We use this lab to prepare samples for light element analysis, for ultra-trace element determinations by ICP, and for the preparation of samples for Li and B isotope ratio determinations. Geosciences also maintains a full cutting and crushing facility that includes a SPEX Shatterbox and SPEX Ball mill with both WC and 99.9% pure Alumina grinders.

additional Facilities

Also available at USF are research grade petrographic microscopes with both transmitted and reflected light capabilities and several modern binocular microscopes with photographic capabilities. We maintain a full thin section preparation laboratory.

Virtual Tour

If you are interested in seeing our facilities, click the links below for a virtual lab tour:

ICP - Instrument Lab
Boron & Lithium Prep Lab
High Temperature Prep Lab

Location and Contact Information

Center for Geochemical Analysis Core Facility
Department of Geosciences
4202 E. Fowler Ave, SCA 428
Tampa, FL 33620
E: Shannon Letscher
W: CGA Core Facility