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Laboratory Detection and Analysis of Organic Compounds in Rocks Using HPLC and XRD MethodsIn this work we describe an analytical method for determining the presence of organic compounds in rocks, limestone, and other composite materials. Our preliminary laboratory experiments on different rocks/limestone show that the organic component in mineralogical matrices is a minor phase on order of hundreds of ppm and can be better detected using high precision liquid chromatography (HPLC). The matrix, which is the major phase, plays an important role in embedding and protecting the organic molecules from the harsh Martian environment. Some rocks bear significant amounts of amino acids therefore, it is possible to identify these phases using powder x-ray diffraction (XRD) by crystallizing the organic. The method of detection/analysis of organics, in particular amino acids, that have been associated with life will be shown in the next section.
Document ID
20040065789
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Dragoi, D.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Kanik, I.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Bar-Cohen, Y.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Sherrit, S.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Tsapin, A.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Kulleck, J.
(Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2004
Publication Information
Publication: Lunar and Planetary Science XXXV: Astrobiology
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.
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