X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) is a non-destructive analysis technique used to identify and determine the concentration of elements in a sample. The samples of analyzed can be solids, powders, or liquids. In this case an XRF analyzer can analyze compounds that are even below the ppm level. For a better understanding here are 5 things about XRF you should know
1. XRF Analyzer Function
XRF analyzer often uses for material control in the industry. By using this tool, we can analyze what elements make up the sample we observe. Moreover, it is fast and does not damage the sample, so the analysis of a sample’s chemical elements will be easier. In this case, XRF can be produced not only by X-rays, but also alpha particles, protons, or high-energy sources of electrons.
2. How XRF Analyzer works
When excitation of primary X-rays from radioactive sources occurs and touch the sample, X-rays will be absorbed or released by the material. This process is also called the photoelectric effect. In this process, electrons will be displaced in such a way as to produce X-ray emissions which are also called X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF). In this case, the process of detection and analysis of X-ray emissions also called XRF analysis.
3. Type of XRF Analyzer
There are two types of XRF, namely WDXRF (Wavelength-dispersive X-ray Fluorescence) and EDXRF (Energy-dispersive X-ray Fluorescence). For WDXRF, X-ray dispersion is obtained from diffraction using a crystal analyzer as a grid. Using WDXRF makes the analysis can be done more extensive, varied, and excellent, especially for heavy elements. The sensitivity is also very high with a low detection limit. Meanwhile, EDXRF works without using crystals but uses software that will regulate radiation from the sample to the detector. In this case, this type of XRF tends to require easier costs, but the accuracy is lower.
4. XRF Analyzer advantages
There are several advantages to using XRF. First, it is easy to use, cheaper and can give faster analysis. Also, it requires a smaller number of samples and the range of elemental analysis results is accurate. Furthermore, XRF can be used for analysis of major elements (Si, Ti, Al, Fe, Mn, Mg, Ca, Na, K, P) and trace element (> 1 ppm; Ba, Ce, Co, Cr, Cu, Ga, La, Nb, Ni, Rb, Sc, Sr, Rh, U, V, Y, Zr, Zn)
5. XRF Analyzer disadvantages
In addition to some of the advantages discussed in the previous point, XRF also has several disadvantages. First, XRF is not suitable for light element analysis, such as H and He. Secondly, for analyzing liquid samples, it will require large amounts of helium gas. Other than that, the sample’s preparation also tends to take time. You also can not know what compounds are formed by the elements contained in the sample you are examining.
Those are 5 things about XRF analyzer you need to know. Hopefully, the explanation above can answer the question about what XRF analyzer is. Moreover, you can choose XRF analyzer according to the specifications you need. Some XRF analyzer brands that you can make choices include, Olympus, CKiC, Elvatech, Xore, and Bruker.
