4. Sample Mineralogy
Samples were examined macroscopically and then a diamond saw was used to section each sample, after which representative samples were used in the preparation of a thin and a polished section. Thin sections were studied using transmitted light microscopy and individual phases within the sample were identified by their optical properties.
Polished sections were examined using reflected light microscopy with individual phases being identified by their optical properties. Backscattered electron imaging was also used to determine the composition of individual phases by the use of energy dispersive microbeam techniques.
All figures referred to in the text are presented at the end of this chapter in section 4.11. in addition to a caption below each image explaining important features.