In situ Pb-isotope analysis of pyrite by laser ablation (multi-collector and quadrupole) ICPMS

Abstract

Pb-isotope ratios, measured in the mineral pyrite, provide a valuable petrogenetic tool with widespread applicability. In order to interpret complex structural and mineralogical textures, however, a method of in-situ analysis is essential. While laser ablation ICPMS is ideally suited to this task, the low melting point of sulfide, the highly variable and often high Pb contents, and the potential presence of relatively radiogenic inclusions introduce a number of analytical problems unique to pyrite Pb-isotope analysis. Here we address these issues using results obtained on two very different analytical systems based around multi-collector and quadrupole ICPMS instruments respectively. We sugg..