Explore Micro XRF Sample Types
The sample area is scanned at a resolution specified by the client (down to 25 microns). The mapping function produces 2-dimensional compositional maps, by collecting an entire x-ray spectrum for each pixel in a grid. These qualitative element maps show the spatial variation and abundance of major, minor and trace elements. Elements ranging from sodium (Na) to uranium (U) can be measured with quantification limits ranging from percentages to parts per million.
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AC RC Chips
Automated micro-X-ray fluorescence (micro XRF) technology emerges as a powerful tool to rapidly and accurately capture the mineralogy of rock chip, RC and AC and end of hole samples. It provides mining professionals with the rapid, accurate, and actionable mineralogical data needed to make strategic decisions and providing significant advantages for exploration and mining companies.
Deliverables include:
Heavy Mineral Concentrates (HMCs)
Micro-XRF allows for high-resolution (<200 µm) quantitative mineralogical and chemical analysis of heavy mineral concentrate’s (HMC’s). This method allows for rapid, non-destructive, reproduceable testing of high-value concentrate samples. By scanning these samples “as received” with the micro-XRF, you have access to their chemical DNA and can use this data to obtain whole sample chemical quantification for up to 42 elements (from O6 – U92), as well chemical quantification pixel by pixel for more in-depth interpretation. The mineralogy software provides mineral identification and quantification, with the ability to detect minerals down to 10 grains per million. The outputs can also include mineral size distribution and liberation, mineral chemistry, and mineral quality.
Deliverables include:
Drill Core
More info to come!
Mineral Sands
More info to come!
Thin Sections
More info to come!
Oil & Gas
More info to come!
Other Sample Types
The micro XRF analysis offers many opportunities to analyse various sample types across industries. Non-geological sample types often require more customised solutions and deliverables. If you are interested in scanning a sample please get in touch today!
Manufacturing
Micro-XRF provides visualisation at a high-spatial resolution up to 4µm, combined with an in-depth elemental analysis, meaning that covered components can often be mapped through the surface of the board. Even a brief scan with a multi elemental image overlay can quickly depict components, making them easily distinguished via their elemental composition. This is a great way to identify potential or current points of failure (e.g., often Au contacts, bond pads, or solder bumps.)
Pharmaceuticals
More information to come!
Organic Matter
Whilst the XRF cannot detect organic matter, it can be used to show inorganic elements within the organic matter. The micro-XRF can be used to delve into the elemental compositions of various organic matter as a tool to unravel the intricate mineral characteristics.
Archaeology & Cultural Materials
Micro XRF is a non-destructive methodology, which can prove invaluable when analysing cultural material and archaeological samples that cannot be destroyed or damaged. This technology is a fantastic addition to material research, aiding in answering artistic methodologies and techniques, conservation concerns, in addition to collection hazard identification and management.
Micro-XRF analysis is completed on the M4 TORNADO and M4 TORNADO PLUS. This instrument has an analysis chamber and is suitable for artefacts and objects that are flat and that can fit onto the stage (330 mm X 170 mm, max weight 5kg). This can include objects such as paper and documents, coins, glass, and ceramic pieces. Available for purchase is the M6 JETSTREAM which is a great alternative for cultural material analysis.
As the analysis of archaeological and cultural materials is customised to suite the object type and researchers needs, deliverables are agreed upon during initial discussion stages.
Sample Submission
Prior to, or at the time of receipt, a sample submission form is required as part of our sample chain of custody procedure.