Case Studies for the Use of Heavy Liquid Density Separation Prior to the Microscopical Examination of Talc Ore and Talcum Powders
THE MICROSCOPE
2024, Volume 71:3, pp. 113–126
DOI
https://doi.org/10.59082/IATS5551
AUTHORS
Steven P. Compton and Matthew R. Underwood
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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