X-ray Fluorescence Analysis Laboratory (XRF)

The elemental composition of a sample refers to the amount and proportion of each chemical element present in the sample. This information is essential for many industries, including pharmaceuticals, food processing, and metallurgy. Elemental composition can be determined using various analytical techniques such as spectroscopy or X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Knowing the elemental composition of a sample helps assess its quality, origin, and can also identify contaminants or purity levels. This type of analysis is also used to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and quality standards.

Wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) are two analytical techniques used in XRF analysis.

The choice between the two depends on analytical requirements, target elements, and the desired resolution:

• WDXRF uses a single crystal to diffract and focus X-rays corresponding to different elements
• EDXRF uses a detector that simultaneously measures the intensity of all elements
• WDXRF provides higher spectral resolution and better peak separation
• EDXRF is faster, more versatile, and well suited for routine or screening analyses

The choice between these two techniques depends on the specific analytical needs and the strengths and limitations of each method. The FILAB laboratory can advise you on the most appropriate approach.

X-ray fluorescence analysis is better suited for elements with higher atomic numbers, while ICP-MS spectrometry is more appropriate for elements with lower atomic numbers and ultra-trace detection.

XRF analysis is ideal for solid samples, as it measures the elements present at or near the surface. ICP-MS, on the other hand, is better suited for liquid samples, as it measures elemental concentrations directly in solution.

X-ray fluorescence is an analytical technique in which a sample is irradiated with X-rays, causing the emission of element-specific characteristic photons. These emitted photons are then detected and analyzed to identify and quantify the elements present in the sample. The technique is non-destructive and provides accurate elemental composition analysis.

The main advantages of X-ray fluorescence analysis are its speed and non-destructive nature. Samples do not need to be damaged or modified prior to analysis. The ability to perform both qualitative and quantitative determination also improves analytical efficiency.

XRF analysis is fast and accurate, providing real-time results for elemental composition. In addition, it can detect a wide range of elements, from sodium to uranium, with low detection limits. Finally, XRF is a versatile technique, suitable for various sample types, including solids, liquids, and powders.

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) has certain limitations, such as difficulty in detecting light elements (e.g., lithium, beryllium) due to their low X-ray emission. Results can be influenced by matrix effects, requiring complex corrections to achieve accurate measurements. The limited penetration depth of X-rays restricts analysis to the surface or near-surface region of samples, which may not always be representative of the bulk material. In addition, XRF equipment can be costly, requiring a significant initial investment and regular maintenance.

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is used across various industrial sectors to address specific analytical challenges:

Metal and alloy production: XRF is used to analyze the chemical composition of metals and alloys to ensure compliance with technical specifications and product quality.

Cement manufacturing: XRF helps control the quality of raw materials and finished products by analyzing elemental composition, ensuring compliance with construction industry standards.

Oil and gas industry: XRF is used to analyze catalysts and petroleum products, optimizing refining processes and ensuring product quality.

Materials recycling: In metal and plastic recycling, XRF enables material identification and sorting based on composition, improving recycling efficiency and the purity of recovered materials.

X-ray fluorescence is highly versatile and can be used to analyze a wide variety of solid samples, including metals, alloys, minerals, ceramics, glass, and even some biological materials. It is also effective for analyzing coatings or deposits on various substrates. Samples may be in powder, pellet, or bulk form, and extensive sample preparation is generally not required, saving time while preserving material integrity.

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis is extremely versatile and can be applied to a wide range of industrial materials, including metals, alloys, minerals, ceramics, polymers, and some organic materials. Before performing the analysis, it is recommended to discuss the nature of your samples with our experts to determine whether XRF is the most suitable method for your specific needs.

One of the advantages of X-ray fluorescence analysis is its ability to analyze small sample sizes. In general, the minimum required sample size depends on the type of spectrometer used, but samples on the order of a few millimeters can often be analyzed effectively. However, to ensure representative and accurate results, it is recommended to provide a sample large enough to cover the X-ray beam area, which may vary depending on the equipment. If you have limited sample quantities, our teams can advise you on the best analytical approach.

X-ray fluorescence is widely used for industrial quality control due to its accuracy and reproducibility. The technique allows the detection and quantification of elements at very low concentration levels, which is essential for ensuring compliance with specifications and standards. In addition, XRF can analyze multiple elements simultaneously, making it an efficient method for chemical composition control. For applications requiring very tight tolerances, custom calibrations can be performed to further enhance measurement accuracy.