X-ray fluorescence spectrometer for elemental analysis of solids, powders and liquids.

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry is used to qualitatively and quantitatively analyse the chemical composition of samples in various forms. It uses the element specific fluorescent X-ray radiation emitted when atoms are excited with a certain X-ray radiation wavelength (in our case from a Rh anode). Elements beyond carbon in the periodic table can be quantified. Though it basically is a spectroscopic method it is called spectrometry because the results are often reported in weight percentages calibrated to standard samples.

Samples:
General rule: the larger the area we can measure on the better the result.
The more sample we have the better.
The limit that can be quantified reliably are a few 100 ppm.
In some cases less is possible; it depends a lot on the sample.

Prices: please log in to see current prices and a list of examples that have been measured

Right now we can measure:

• solid samples
  • best in round shape
  • diameters 50-38 mm, 31 mm, 20 mm, 7 mm
  • for other shapes and sizes we can find solutions
• pressed powders
  • powders are mixed with a binder (wax based)
  • pellet sizes we can press are 40 mm and 20 mm
  • amount of sample needed depends on your sample; expect 100-500 mg
• loose powder
  • sample can be retrieved after measurement
  • is measured in a plastic cup on a 6 or 12 µm PP film
  • amount of sample needed is a bit larger; expect 300 mg up to 1 g
  • with a new cup design smaller amounts of sample might be possible in the future
• liquid samples
  • measurement of liquids has been tested with colloidal Pd nanoparticals in aquous solution and worked well. About 0.1 w% Pd were correctly determined in agreement with ICP results
  • solutions of Hg in water have been quatified down to 5 ppm as a limit at present
  • please contact Andreas S. to discuss in more detail in case you are interested in measuring liquids.
  • We have now consumables that can withstand aromatics. Hence there is the option to measure mineral oil or other aromatic (low vapour pressure) liquids and solvents

How to measure:

Please contact Andreas Schaefer (tool responsible) to discuss a few details about your sample.
The general procedure is at the moment:

• if you have only a few samples we will measure it for you
• if you have several samples on a frequent basis you can get a training on the machine (1-2 days)
  and we will set up a specific routine for you to measure with. You will then be able to book the machine through the booking system.