Custom X-ray Flux Chemicals from XRF Scientific

X-ray fluorescence is a process in which fluorescent x-rays are emitted from a substance which has been excited by gamma rays or X-rays. This process can be used as an analytical procedure which is non-harmful, working to evaluate the chemistry and material composition of a sample. This is an extremely versatile technique which can be beneficial for a broad range of applications to analyze a large number of materials across the periodic table.

How does X-ray Fluorescence Work?

X-ray fluorescence relies on the process of ionization, where an atom gains a positive or negative charge by losing or gaining electrons to create ions. Atoms inside a material can ionize when exposed to short wavelength X-ray beams and gamma rays.

When these are processed, an energy variation between the initial X-ray beam and the fluorescent X-ray produced is noted. The energy of the fluorescent beam has a direct link to the element which is being analyzed.

X-ray fluorescence is used for a large number of applications such as material surface analysis, coating thickness measurements, quality control purposes and thin film measurements.

Choosing X-ray Flux Chemicals

The applications of X-ray flux chemicals are varied and, as such, it is important that the specific requirements are considered before selecting an X-ray flux chemical.

The flux purity can be crucial when used in applications where trace-level precision is required. Purity is also important with regard to the reduction of contamination likelihood and the background intensity.

The best outcome of a mixture of X-ray flux chemical and sample is neutrality. This means it is crucial to consider the acidity or basicity of a sample when selecting a flux to ensure it is as neutral as possible.

The X-ray flux chemical’s physical structure is also a fundamental factor in how the flux performs. The most frequently occurring structures are beaded, powder and granular and the format of a flux can significantly impact the melting rates, weighing accuracy, and hygroscopy of the fusion process. Pre-fused x-ray flux chemicals are often the most likely to result in successful fusion.

X-ray Flux Chemicals from XRF Scientific

XRF Scientific can produce X-ray flux chemicals that are tailored to suit customer specifications. We have developed standard fluxes which offer high precision results for the analysis of copper, nickel and iron ore and the use of these standards can eradicate the need to carry out high temperature loss of ignition with substantial time and cost benefits.

X-ray flux chemicals such as lithium tetraborate and lithium metaborate products by XRF Scientific are available in various compositions. The lithium metaborate 100% is an excellent option for wet chemistry applications due to its melting point of 845°C  as well as its high reactivity with acidic samples.

Lithium tetraborate 100% flux can be applied with calcium oxide, copper sulfate, and magnesium oxide samples. This X-ray flux can be successfully employed for oxide samples in larger amounts, or samples with a large quantities of limestone.

To find out more about the X-ray flux chemicals XRF Scientific can offer, contact us today.