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Updated: Jul 3, 2026
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Synchrotron X-ray Microdiffraction and Fluorescence Imaging of Mineral and Rock Samples
Published on: June 19, 2018
Spatially resolved X-ray fluorescence analysis with a pyroelectric X-ray emitter
So Hatakeyama1, Shinsuke Kunimura, Nobuharu Sasaki
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
Summary
A portable X-ray fluorescence imaging instrument was developed using a pyroelectric crystal X-ray source. This device achieved elemental analysis sensitivity for everyday objects and demonstrated a spatial resolution of 3.5 mm.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Instrumentation
Background:
- X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is a powerful elemental analysis technique.
- Portable XRF instruments are desirable for in-situ analysis.
- Developing compact and battery-powered XRF systems presents engineering challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assemble a portable, two-dimensional X-ray fluorescence imaging instrument.
- To evaluate the performance of the portable XRF system for elemental analysis and imaging.
Main Methods:
- An X-ray source utilizing a pyroelectric crystal, powered by a 9-V battery, was integrated with a Si-PIN detector, slit, and pulse motors.
- Line scanning of a mug and knife-edge scanning of an iron sheet were performed.
- Elemental detection and spatial resolution were assessed using specific slit and pinhole configurations.
Main Results:
- The portable spectrometer demonstrated sufficient sensitivity for elemental analysis of a mug using a 1 mm² slit.
- Several elements (Co, Ni, Zn, Pb, Zr) were successfully detected.
- An estimated spatial resolution of 3.5 mm was achieved with a 0.8-mm pinhole.
Conclusions:
- A functional portable 2D X-ray fluorescence imaging instrument was successfully assembled.
- The developed system is capable of sensitive elemental analysis and imaging of common objects.
- The pyroelectric crystal-based X-ray source offers a viable low-power solution for portable XRF applications.
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