Every material contains a unique array of elements, imbuing them with attributes that contribute to their performance. By uncovering the elements of a material through elemental analysis, it’s possible to deliver quality control, ensuring any contamination is identified and that batch standards remain consistent. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry can be utilized to understand a material’s elemental composition. It can be applied to a number of diverse industries, like archaeology and art for examining pigments, environmental science for monitoring pollution, and pharmaceuticals for analyzing drugs.

Sample preparation in XRF spectrometry is an essential step that can impact the outcome of the an...

Undertaking X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is an excellent way of ascertaining a material’s elemental make-up. Not only is XRF a non-destructive technique, meaning that the analyzed sample remains undamaged, but it can identify a variety of elements, starting with sodium (Na) and ending with uranium (U). Its ability to decipher the elements within a sample works through the application of X-rays. These X-rays can excite a material’s atoms, generating characteristic X-rays that have a specific energy that relates to an element, which can be deciphered through a detector. Unfortunately, there is something that can affect the accuracy of XRF measurements: the particle size effect.

The Particl...

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry is a mainstay in chemical analysis. It provides non-destructive elemental detection of major and trace elements—ranging from 100% to the sub-PPM range. This applies to a huge range of elements, typically from beryllium (Be) up to uranium (U). But it’s not without limitations. Matrix effects, for instance, pose a serious obstacle to accuracy. Elemental variations within the sample trigger these effects. They can disrupt X-ray absorption and fluorescence emission, which impairs results.

Fortunately, there are tried-and-trusted solutions to overcoming matrix effects.

1. Prioritize Proper Sample PreparationRead More