Advanced Analytical Techniques in Earth Sciences

The course aims to provide advanced skills in the main analytical techniques used in Earth Sciences, with particular reference to mineralogical-petrological-geochemical investigations. The course will cover basic theoretical knowledge of instrumentations, addressing the advantages and disadvantages of different analytical techniques (EMPA/SEM, Raman, XRD, TEM, µCT, LA-(MC-)ICP-MS). The course aims to provide the required information for a complete and successful implementation of an analytical research program for both academic and non-academic purposes. Theoretical knowledge will be associated with laboratory activities aimed at a better understanding of the techniques. Part of the course is also aimed at a critical evaluation of the analytical data in terms of the main figures of merit.