Clay Mineralogy: Spectroscopic and Chemical Determinative Methods

A knowledge of clay is important in many spheres of scientific endeav­ our, particularly in natural sciences such as geology, mineralogy and soil science, but also in more applied areas like environmental and mater­ ials science. Over the last two decades research into clay mineralogy has been strongly influenced by the development and application of a num­ ber of spectroscopic techniques which are now able to yield information about clay materials at a level of detail that previously would have seemed inconceivable. This information relates not only to the precise characterization of the individual clay components themselves, but also to the ways in which these components interact with a whole range of absorbate molecules. At present, however, the fruits of this research are to be found principally in a somewhat widely dispersed form in the scientific journals, and it was thus considered to be an appropriate time to bring together a compilation of these spectroscopic techniques in a way which would make them more accessible to the non-specialist. This is the primary aim of this book. The authors of the various chapters first describe the principles and instrumentation of the individual spectro­ scopic techniques, assuming a minimum of prior knowledge, and then go on to show how these methods have been usefully applied to clay mineralogy in its broadest context.

Strikes a reasonable balance between spectroscopic concepts and analytical practice while providing a compendium of research findings specific to clay mineralogy...useful to veteran scientists as well as those seeking an introduction to certain aspects of clay science - Journal of Environmental Quality; The book is likely to prove a useful reference for those interested in clays and related mineralogical applications...this book is a useful and timely reference work - Journal of the Russell Society; An excellent book selection of a technique. It should feature on the shelf of every clay scientist. It can also be used for course work at the graduate level - Geoscientist; ...concisely, yet clearly written and is easy to read. I am sure it fulfils expectations of students and scientists wanting to use spectroscopic methods in clay research. - Geologica Carpathica - Clays.; ...for those seriously interested in clay minerals it will prove to be of great use. - Geological Magazine; ..particularly useful for those who are familiar with the problems of investigating clay minerals, but need a fresh review on appropriate spectroscopic or chemical analytical methods. This book is very well organised, and the quality of printing is excellent...institutional libraries ought to have one on hand. - The Canadian Mineralogist; ...of great value. It provides in one volume a good compilation of basic information that would otherwise be available only from a variety of different sources...I am sure that it will soon be on the shelves of many libraries and part of the book collections of clay mineralogists and soil scientists. - Mineralogical Magazine