Case Studies for the Use of Heavy Liquid Density Separation Prior to the Microscopical Examination of Talc Ore and Talcum Powders

2024:176:Compton, Underwood

The Microscope, 2024, Volume 71:3, pp. 113–126

Abstract: 

The detection of asbestos fibers in talc and other milled mineral powders sometimes benefits from commonly utilized matrix reduction steps, such as ashing and acid washing. A less frequently applied, but proven and published sample reduction technique involves separating different density fractions of a mineral powder using aqueous “heavy” liquids. Two case studies involving samples of vintage talcum powder products and of processed talc ore provide information about the utility of such an approach when performed prior to microscopical examination.

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