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DETERMINATION OF URANIUM AND THORIUM SURFACE DISTRIBUTION IN GEOLOGICAL SAMPLES: COMPARISON OF TABLETOP MACRO AND
Tomáš Trojek1, Darina Trojková1, Petr Mikysek2
1Czech Technical University in Prague, Department of Dosimetry and Application of Ionizing Radiation, Břehová 7, 115 19 Praha 1, Czech Republic.
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|August 25, 2022
Summary
This study compares macro and micro X-ray fluorescence (XRF) scanning for analyzing uranium ore. Macro-XRF scanning proved competitive with micro-XRF for elemental surface distribution, offering improved lateral resolution.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Materials Science
Background:
- Accurate elemental analysis of low-grade uranium ores is crucial for resource assessment.
- X-ray fluorescence (XRF) scanning offers non-destructive elemental surface distribution mapping.
- Distinguishing between macro and micro XRF techniques is important for optimizing analytical strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and quantify uranium, thorium, and other elements in low-grade uranium ore.
- To compare the lateral resolution and capabilities of macro-XRF and micro-XRF scanning.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of macro-XRF for elemental surface distribution analysis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized macro and micro X-ray fluorescence (XRF) scanning for elemental analysis.
- Employed a standard reference material (NIST 610) for calibration and validation.
- Analyzed uranium-bearing sediment samples from the Břevniště deposit, Czech Republic.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated the capability of macro-XRF scanning to identify and quantify elemental surface distribution.
- Showcased that macro-XRF, even with a wider X-ray beam, can be competitive with micro-XRF.
- Established the analytical capabilities of both macro and micro XRF setups for geological samples.
Conclusions:
- Macro-XRF scanning is a viable and competitive technique for elemental surface distribution analysis in uranium ores.
- The study provides insights into optimizing XRF scanning parameters for geological applications.
- Findings support the use of macro-XRF for efficient analysis of low-grade uranium deposits.
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