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Updated: May 8, 2026
10:12
Synchrotron X-ray Microdiffraction and Fluorescence Imaging of Mineral and Rock Samples
Published on: June 19, 2018
Multi-element analysis by portable total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometer.
Ying Liu1, Susumu Imashuku, Jun Kawai
1Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kyoto University, Sakyo, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan. liu.ying.48r@st.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Summary
A portable total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectrometer was optimized for multi-element analysis. This method achieved sub-nanogram detection limits for nine elements in just 10 minutes.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Spectroscopy
- Materials Science
Background:
- Accurate elemental analysis is crucial for environmental and geological studies.
- Portable analytical instruments are needed for field-based investigations.
- Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence (TXRF) offers high sensitivity for elemental analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize a portable TXRF spectrometer for simultaneous multi-element analysis.
- To determine the optimal excitation parameters and sample amount for minimal detection limits.
- To assess the suitability of portable TXRF for sensitive field analysis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of multi-element solutions containing S, K, Sc, V, Mn, Co, Cu, Ga, As, Br, and Y.
- Optimization of portable TXRF parameters: glancing angle, voltage, current, and sample amount.
- Detailed investigation of fluorescence signal and background dependencies on excitation parameters.
Main Results:
- Nine elements were detected at sub-nanogram levels in a single 10-minute measurement.
- Optimal experimental conditions significantly reduced detection limits.
- Background contributions from the sample carrier were analyzed and discussed.
Conclusions:
- The optimized portable TXRF spectrometer is suitable for simultaneous multi-element analysis with low detection limits.
- High sensitivity, minimal sample requirement, and fast detection make it valuable for field studies.
- The technology is applicable to environmental and geological investigations.
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