Bulk and Detailed Clay (<4 micron) XRD Analysis

A Bulk and Clay (<4 micron) XRD Analysis involves semi-quantitative (weight percent) determination of all rock-forming and clay/phyllosilicate minerals. Also included is determination of mixed-layer clay types, ordering, and percent expandable interlayers (if any).

X-ray Diffraction Data are used for:
  • Weight% and volume% mineralogy
  • Calculated grain densities and Vshale
  • Multiple-size fraction clay mineral studies
  • Mixed-layer clay characterization
  • Drilling, completion and stimulation recommendations
  • Clastic and carbonate diagenesis
  • Shale diagenesis and thermal maturation
  • Analysis of primary siliceous sediments
  • Wireline log interpretation and calibration
  • Volume percent mineralogy/density calculations
  • Reservoir quality and sensitivity
  • Completion and stimulation design
  • Shale stability and drilling problems
  • Produced solids and scale/corrosion products
  • Drilling mud and frac sand analyses
  • Clay and zeolite mineralogy of soils
  • Analysis of synthetic and natural liner materials
  • Ore mineralogy and hydrothermal deposits
  • Mineral impurities in raw materials used in manufacturing
  • Mineral impurities in coals