X-ray Fluorescence
QSA provides Americium-241 sources used to produce highly accurate x-ray fluorescence chemical and elemental analysis. X-ray fluorescence is a non-destructive testing method, generally used in forensic science, geochemistry, and archaeology.
X-ray Fluorescence Technique
Primary radiation from the radioisotope source excites atoms of the elements present in the sample, removing electrons from the sub-shells around the nucleus. X-ray characteristics of each element are emitted as electrons from the outer shells and move to fill the gaps created in the inner shells.
The shell from which the electron is removed determines the series of X-rays produced. The intensity of the X-ray is indicative of the concentration of the particular element in the sample.
Since radioisotopes emit specific radiations, a limitation results on the range of elements whose characteristic X-ray can be excited. Thus a series of nuclides is employed in order that excitation of all elements from silicon to uranium can be achieved.
X-ray Fluorescence Applications
- Alloy analysis for checking stock, scrap sorting and checking components
- In mining, analysis of material excavated from puts and cores, chippings, and slurries from drilling operations
- Analysis of electroplating solutions
- General chemical analysis
- Lead in paint analysis
Sources