Antarctic Meteorite Sample Preparation
Iron Meteorite and Pallasite Preparation at Smithsonian
Iron meteorites and pallasites are stored and processed at the Smithsonian. These meteorites, unlike other meteorite types, are stored at the National Museum of Natural History. The majority of these are stored in humidity controlled cabinets to reduce oxidation. Sample preparation facilities are specially equipped for cutting, polishing and sectioning irons and predominantly iron bearing meteorites. Iron meteorites and pallasites are cut using specialized composite (a hardened rubberized compound impregnated with abrasives) blades. Blade composition and sources can be provided upon request. Polished sections are made with standard epoxy and polished with diamond paste and aluminum oxide.
