Analysis of trace elements in zircon by SHRIMP

This Record provides details of the method development and tests undertaken to make a method for routine trace element analysis of zircon using the Sensitive High Resolution Ion Micro Probe (SHRIMP). Mass scans to identify possible isotopic interferences, homogeneity tests and comparisons between different modes of operation and models of SHRIMP were conducted using eight zircon reference crystals that covered a wide range of compositions. The recommendations of this Record will be applied to future acquisition of zircon trace element data, which are intended to complement Geoscience Australia's ongoing geochronology program of precompetitive data.