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Identifying a possible meteorite by SEM-based EDS

Meteorites are considered some of the most primitive surviving materials from the formation of our solar system. As such, these objects can provide information about planetary formation through their properties – including their structure, composition and morphology. Meteorites often have airmarks and molten crusts formed by the impact of airflow on their surface during entry through the atmosphereand, in addition, before being discovered by humans they often go through erosion by wind, frost, rain and dew. This can make it very difficult, even for experts, to identify a meteorite based on its appearance. Therefore, it is important to apply an appropriate method to measure their composition to correctly identify meteorites and deduce their origin and formation. 

By downloading this application note, you will learn how:

  • By combining the SEM with an EDS system, chemical information could additionally be obtained
  • To use a combination of BSE imaging and standardless EDS quantitative analysis in the investigation of the meteorite sample
  • To use the EDS Mapping and the AutoPhaseMap functions in AZtec to obtain the exact proportion of each mineral phase in the meteorite
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