Applied Rigaku Technologies has released a new application report demonstrating a new empirical method using the Rigaku NEX QC energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer to analyze sulfur content in gypsum, a soft sulfate mineral used in Portland cement for preventing flash setting of concrete.
Rigaku NEX QC Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometer
Application Note #1255 describes the performance of the Rigaku NEX QC analyzer in gypsum analysis for quality control in the cement production process. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy is an integral part to monitor quality control of the production process in advanced cement facilities to produce a reliable product. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry is used for monitoring and quality control, delivering swift compositional data at different production stages.
It is essential to closely monitor sulfur content in gypsum at the quarry, cement facility and industrial production site to assure the quality and required formulations of the finished products. EDXRF analyzers are normally deployed to screen gypsum addition across the production process.
Under this empirical method, gypsum is grinded to a dry, homogeneous powder of <200 mesh (<75µm particle size) to prepare each gypsum sample. An even and reliable sample is packed by placing roughly 8 g of powder in a 32 mm sample cup. A set of 6 assayed standards having sulfur content varying between 12% and 17% is used to develop the empirical calibration. Analytical results and precision data are revealed by measuring the high and low sulfur content calibration standards. Detection limits are also detected by the analysis time and calibration range.
The data demonstrate that the Rigaku NEX QC analyzer delivers remarkable results for the calibration of sulfur content in gypsum without the requirement for helium purge. It is possible to measure other elements such as calcium in gypsum. The method demonstrates how the analyzer, with its easy-to-use advanced touch screen interface, provides efficient and consistent measurement to fulfill analytical requirements at the cement plant or quarry when analyzing gypsum and finished cement, and during the production of other gypsum products.