Line-scan detection system to identify rare earth elements in rocks

We develop an integrated sensor system to detect rare earth elements (REE) in natural minerals on-site. The system combines reflectance and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy in order to present a noninvasive alternative to conventional time-consuming and costly chemical analysis of drill cores in mineral exploration. The major benefit lies in the rapid gathering of continuous spatial information on the type and abundance of the REEs in drill cores. Additionally the sample material remains unharmed during the whole process. To maximise scan speed and sample throughput, our system operates in continuous line scan mode, with continuous sample flow beneath the detector.