Geochemistry database : data analysis and proposed design

The results of the data analysis for a geochemistry relational database to hold the UK, land-based datasets currently managed by the Minerals and Geochemical Surveys Division plus some other geochemical datasets held by BGS are presented in full in the form of a geochemistry data model. Recommendations for the formal acceptance of this model by the management of the Minerals and Geochemical Surveys Division are also produced. Financial support for this project has come from the Department of Trade and Industry Mineral Reconnaissance Programme. The minimum requirement for all potential datasets is defined. The same standard sample numbering system must be used for all samples. All batches of analysed samples must have the correct and complete index information available. An entity relationship diagram showing all relationships between the 43 identified entities is provided. Thirty five of the entities, which map directly onto the relations identified by data normalisation, are defined in detail and all 79 of their associated domains are also defined. Defects identified during the data analysis and subsequent quality assurance review are listed and discussed. Excluded from this data analysis are offshore and overseas data. Gas and vegetation entities are not adequately covered by this report and require further work. Few samples of these types have been collected in the past.