Process of parallel sample preparation

A method of forming an array of powder samples arranged in predefined locations where all samples have a flat surface in a common plane comprising:

• (a) providing a monolithic block defining a main support section and a flat support section, said main support section having at least N depressions providing openings in a first surface of the main support section in predefined locations, where N is the number of samples in the array and N Is at least two, said depressions in the form of perforations extending from a first surface of the main support section to a second surface defined by the main support section or the flat support section;
• (b) loading sample X in depression X of the main support section where X is an integer from 1 to N;
• (c) adding a grinding tool to each depression;
• (d) agitating the main support section and flat support section to simultaneously grind the samples in the depressions;
• (e) removing the grinding tool from each depression;
• (f) forming a flat surface of each sample where the fiat surfaces are in a common plane by forcing the samples within the depressions against the fiat support section;
• (g) retaining the samples in position within the depressions using retaining means;
• and
• (h) sufficiently exposing the fiat surfaces of the samples in the predefined locations for testing over a common plane by limiting the thickness of the flat support section.

A method of forming an array of powder samples arranged in predefined locations where all samples have a flat surface In a common plane comprising:

• (a) providing a monolithic block defining a main support section and a flat support section, said main support section having at least N depressions providing openings in a first surface of the main support section in predefined locations, where N is the number of samples in the array and N is at least two, said depressions in the form of perforations extending from a first surface of the main support section to a second surface defined by the main support section or the flat support section;
• (b) loading sample X in depression X of the main support section where X is an integer from 1 to N;
• (c) forming a fiat surface of each sample where the flat surfaces are in a common plane by forcing the samples within the depressions against the fiat support section using the technique of:
• i) adding a wash liquid and a grinding tool to each depression;
• ii) agitating the main support section and flat support section to simultaneously wash and grind the samples !n the depressions;
• iii) removing the wash liquid and grinding tool from each depression;
• iv) wherein said technique also washes and grinds the samples;
• (d) retaining the samples in position within the depressions using retaining means;
• and
• (a) sufficiently exposing the flat surfaces of the samples in the predefined locations for testing over a common plane by limiting the thickness of the flat support section.