A CHEMICAL METHOD FOR HAFNIUM SEPARATION FROM HIGH-TI WHOLE-ROCK AND ZIRCON SAMPLES

Abstract

A chemical separation method of Hf from rocks is presented. A procedure involving three stages of ion-exchange columns and sulfuric acid as an eluant produces consistent Zr- and Ti-free Hf separations. The methods described are well suited for high-Ti samples, such as mafic rocks. In addition, the method provides a very efficient means for Hf separation from zircons.