Role of analytical chemistry in the exploration programme of uranium and other atomic minerals

Determination of major, minor and trace constituents in complex geological materials, hydrogeochemical samples and allied materials has always been a fascinating field of analytical chemistry and more so, for application in uranium exploration/exploitation programmes. The trace level occurrence of uranium, economic compulsions and other related uncertainties are the natural causes for the interest in its exploration and analysis. Methods have been standardized and developed for estimation of many elements from major to trace quantities using state-of-the-art analytical instruments like ICP-MS, ICP-AES, GF-AAS, FAAS, Ion-chromatography, TOG Analyzer, Fluorimeter etc., in connection with the uranium exploration programme. Brief account of work is presented mainly for strategic elements like U, Nb, Ta, REE, Au, PGE, B, Sc etc., after separation and estimation using ICP-AES/ FAAS techniques