Geochemical mapping at the Geological Survey of Sweden

Geochemical mapping has been carried out for several decades at the Geological Survey of Sweden (SGU). Two kinds of sampling media dominate: glacial till (soil geochemical program) and aquatic vegetation (biogeochemical mapping). Data from these mapping programs have been used for various applications such as discoveries of contaminated land and research in environmental, medical and mineral exploration. The main goal of the geochemical mapping programs has been to produce consistent and high quality data. Therefore, both programs have been subject to various changes to increase their usefulness for decision-makers and planners. The number of parameters determined has increased, partial leach analysis has migrated from a combination of AAS/ICP-AES techniques to ICP-MS, urban geochemistry projects have been incorporated, and additional terrestrial sediments have been added to the regional soil geochemical survey. An increasing number of new applications have also been implemented for emerging societal needs. This paper gives an overview of the mapping program and examples of products for use in society as well as strategies for the future.