The Thermo Scientific™ ARL™ PERFORM'X™ Sequential XRF Spectrometer is commonly used for quantitative elemental analysis of various materials, including petrochemicals, geochemicals, metals, glass and ceramics, mining, and cement.
These samples are often supplied to the XRF spectrometer as homogenous and homogeneously produced samples.
The ARL PERFORM'X spectrometer allows for sample surface mapping analysis. The mapping capabilities enable assessments of inhomogeneity, contamination, gradient, segregation, and inclusion.
The spectrometer also creates precise composite maps of elemental distribution inside a sample. The cartographic control and overlay offer a fine resolution of 0.1 mm steps, providing greater analysis in process optimization and issue-solving applications.
This capability bridges the gap between traditional bulk analysis and typical micro-analysis methods such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Instrument
These tests were performed using a 1500 W ARL PERFORM'X system that includes six primary beam filters, four collimators, up to nine crystals, two detectors, and a 5 GN Rh X-ray tube for ultra-light element analysis.
The ARL PERFORM'X analyzer supports mapping and small spot analysis on 1.5 mm and 0.5 mm regions.
Figure 1. ARL PERFORM’X XRF Spectrometer. Image Credit: Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis
Elemental Mapping
Elemental mapping with a WDXRF spectrometer is a potent analytical method for determining segregation, inhomogeneity, inclusion, and contamination. This information is useful in providing an overall view of routine sampling and discovery or root cause failure analysis.
Typically, high-power XRF is used to achieve small spot and mapping capabilities. High power allows for speedier analysis and lower limits of detection, but it is not required for these findings.
By extending the elemental analysis periods, sample applications can be accomplished with excitation conditions as low as 1500 W rather than 4200 W.
For example, a biotite rock was elementally mapped for Al, Ca, K, P, Fe, Rb, and Si. The results are displayed in several styles and can be changed at any time with a single click of a button.
The initial display is a two-dimensional representation, as illustrated in Figure 2. The brightest colors are found at the highest intensities of the elemental distribution.
Figure 2. 2D representation of elemental mapped biotite rock. Image Credit: Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis
Analysis conditions of mapped elements. Source: Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis
| Elements |
Crystal |
Detector |
kV |
mA |
| Al |
PET |
FPC |
21 |
70 |
| Ca |
LiF200 |
FPC |
30 |
50 |
| K |
LiF200 |
FPC |
30 |
50 |
| P |
Ge111 |
FPC |
21 |
70 |
| Si |
InSb |
FPC |
21 |
70 |
| Fe |
LiF200 |
FPC |
37 |
40 |
| Rb |
LiF200 |
SC |
40 |
37 |
Figure 3 shows a three-dimensional orientation of the data, providing a more extensive depiction of the intensity fluctuations. The largest peaks correspond to the areas with the highest intensities.
The distribution of elemental components relative to the surface helps to understand the mineral ore body in the sample.
Figure 3. 3-D mapping of elements. Image Credit: Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis
To create an easily distinguishable association, a colorful overlay was placed. These overlays can be seen in Figures 4 and 5. Overlays can be presented as individual elements or as a composite.
Conclusion
The WDXRF technique is typically used for routine elemental quantification with homogeneous materials. However, the additional benefits of characteristics, such as elemental mapping and small spot analysis, open up new avenues of exploration in the imperfect realms of process control, R&D, and nature.
These instruments can enhance your laboratory's capabilities and processes, allowing you to provide more valuable services to your clients and associates. Thermo Scientific™ OXSAS™ Software, compatible with the newest Windows® operating system, simplifies operations.
Figure 4. Elemental distribution overlay. Image Credit: Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis
Figure 5. Single elemental distribution. Image Credit: Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis
This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis.
For more information on this source, please visit Thermo Fisher Scientific - Elemental and Phase Analysis.