Microscopical Petrography

It is realized through the optic microscopy of transmitted light exam, over stone slices (thin blades) displayed in areas of approximately 4,0 x 2,5 cm, with a 0,03 mm thickness.

The petrography of thin sections is used for identification and analysis of the so-called transparent minerals (those transmitting the light), mainly the silicates and carbonates.

The petrographic analysis constitutes the only method of laboratorial investigation that enables the visualization in detail of the rock constituents, allowing to evaluate the implications of their properties on the future behavior of the applied products.

Over and above, over rocks containing opaque minerals (non transparent), as for example the sulfates (pyrite, chalcopyrite etc.) and oxides (magnetite, ilmenite etc.), the microscopical examination is done under light reflected in polished sections.

These examinations allow the determination of the rock mineralogical composition and nature, establishing the textural relations and state of microfissure of crystals, as well as identifying metasomatic alterations, hydrothermic processes and other features that may compromise the luster, durability and performance of the different rocky materials.