[The digital processing of the images in x-ray microanalysis]

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Microscopy

Background:

• X-ray microanalysis generates elemental maps, but extracting detailed quantitative information can be challenging.
• Existing image analysis systems offer basic mapping capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop novel algorithms for semiquantitative analysis of X-ray microanalytical maps.
• To extract richer elemental information, including profiles, isoconcentration, and multiple elemental maps.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the IBAS image analysis system for processing X-ray microanalytical maps.
• Developed new algorithms to derive element profiles, isoconcentration maps, and multiple elemental maps from binary images.
• Implemented 8-bit pixel resolution for detailed mapping and overlapping element extraction.

Main Results:

• Successfully generated element profiles along chosen lines within the maps.
• Created isoconcentration maps to visualize elemental distribution.
• Developed a method for displaying up to eight different elemental maps simultaneously.
• Enabled the extraction of pixels showing overlapping elemental signals.

Conclusions:

• The developed algorithms significantly enhance the analytical capabilities of X-ray microanalysis.
• New semiquantitative information can be extracted from existing elemental maps.
• The methods allow for more comprehensive material characterization through advanced image analysis.