Methods for testing impurity content in a precious metal
AssigneeKee Gold Corp.
InventorsMichael R. Ebersole, Warren D. Kleinfelter
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Abstract
A precious metal testing apparatus and methods adapted to analyze impurities in a precious metal test sample is described. The testing apparatus contains a test probe that has a replaceable portion and that is connected to a meter to measure resistance. The replaceable portion contains or forms a reservoir that includes at least one electrolyte component, a conductive member, and a fibrous tip. The electrolyte component is fluidly associated with a fiber tip and the conductive member contacts an electrical contact located outside the reservoir. Methods of testing and instructions regarding such methods are also included.
Claims20
A method for analyzing an impurity content of a precious metal sample, which method comprises:
- associating an electrically conductive zone of a portable testing device with the sample, wherein the electrically conductive zone is detachable from the remainder of the testing device and is replaceable, and the conductive zone contains a conductive member that extends at least partially through the conductive zone;
- measuring the electrical resistance of one or more impurities in the sample;
- and
- comparing the measured resistance to a standard value of electrical measurements including at least one of the same type of precious metal to determine the impurity content of the sample.
A method of assembling a portable precious-metal testing apparatus comprising:
- providing a replaceable cartridge that comprises an electrolyte component therein;
- positioning a first end of the replaceable cartridge in a hand-held housing that is electrically associated with the remainder of the testing apparatus so that a fiber tip disposed at a second, opposite end of the replaceable cartridge protrudes from the housing;
- and
- securing the hand-held housing so as to retain the replaceable cartridge and minimize the loss of electrolyte component.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.