New device can detect minerals in minutes

Scientists are developing a first-of-its-kind handheld analyser which can examine mining samples for minerals in just under two minutes.
Dr Graeme Hansford from the University of Leicester has started a collaborative project with Bruker Elemental, a manufacturer of scientific instruments, to develop a handheld mineral analyser for mining applications.
The analyser will allow rapid mineral identification and quantification in the field through a combination of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF).
The device will be capable of analysing mining samples for mineral content within 1-2 minutes, researchers said.
The analyser is unique due to the insensitivity of the technique to the shape of the sample, which enables the direct analysis of samples without any form of preparation - something currently inconceivable using conventional XRD equipment.

Hansford originally conceived the XRD technique in early 2010, when trying to work out how to apply XRD for space applications - for example on the surface of Mars or an asteroid - without the need for any sample preparation.