Abstract: An apparatus (10) for capturing drilling fluid returns in an exploration drilling process, as well as a related method of capturing the drilling fluid returns. The apparatus (10) is adapted to be fitted onto a drill collar/casing (11) adjacent its open top (13). The apparatus (10) comprises a body (21) defining a reservoir (23) for receiving the drilling fluid returns flowing out through the open top end (13) of the drill collar/casing (11) and spilling into the reservoir (23). The reservoir (23) comprises a collecting portion (25) in which the fluid returns spilling from the drill collar/casing (11) can be collected. The reservoir (23) also comprises a sump portion (27) which can receive the drilling fluid returns and from which the drilling fluid returns can be pumped by way of a sump pump (28). The reservoir (23) is configured to direct the drilling fluid returns collected by the collecting portion (25) to the sump portion (27) as a continuous flow.

Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for use in drying a sample of geological material having a substantial moisture content. In one aspect, the apparatus comprises a means for providing a flow of heated fluid, and a means for managing the thermal state of the flow of heated fluid. The means for managing the thermal state of the flow of heated fluid is arranged operable with the means for providing a flow of heated fluid so that exposure of the sample to the flow of heated fluid facilitates a reduction of the moisture content of a portion of the sample while substantially preserving one or more chemical and/or physical properties of the portion.

Abstract: A sampling and analysis system, and related method, for use in exploration drilling, particularly diamond drilling. The system includes a number of sub-systems, including a capturing sub-system, a sample recovery and splitting sub-system, a sample preparation/drying sub-system, a sample handling and sensor sub-system, a data collection and management sub-system, an automated data analysis and interpretation sub-system, and a control sub-system for data collection and process control. The sample handling and sensor sub-system may comprise an integrated arrangement or separate units providing a sample handling sub-system and a sample sensor sub-system. The sample preparation/drying sub-system is operable to ensure that the samples it receives from the sample recovery sub-system are optimally prepared for introduction to the sample handling and sensor sub-system. The sampling and analysis system may be autonomous or operable manually or semi-automatically.