Micro X-ray Fluorescence spectroscopy (μXRF) is a rapid and non-destructive technique used to quickly acquire qualitative and quantitative geochemical data at high spatial resolution (i.e. μm scale). Micro-XRF is an ideal method for element mapping large samples (19 x 16cm) with little to no sample preparation. Elements ranging from sodium (Na) to uranium (U) can be measured with quantification limits down to parts per million. These qualitative element maps show the spatial variation and abundance of major, minor and trace elements and enable small-scale textural and compositional features to be identified, including those that are not visibly discernible.
To submit samples, please contact our office to discuss your requirements and obtain a sample submission form.
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.
Manual element identification s conducted to confirm the presence of individual elements and to select the most appropriate absorption energy peak for each element.
This report includes a summary of the data collection method and Step 1 results. Additionally, you will receive the Raw Data files and M4 images for the element maps.
The AMICS software processes each X-ray spectrum to identify the mineral phase with the sample from the comprehensive mineral database provided with the software, combined with the minerals that have been manually added to the database. The mineralogy maps show the spatial variation and abundance of minerals in each sample and highlight the compositional and textural relationships of the different mineral phases.
