How does XRF work?
XRF is an acronym for X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. XRF is a non-destructive analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials. Handheld XRF analyzers work by measuring the fluorescent (or secondary) X-rays emitted from a sample when excited by a primary X-ray source. Each of the elements present in a sample produces a set of characteristic fluorescent X-rays, or “unique fingerprints”. These “fingerprints” are distinct for each element, making handheld XRF analysis an excellent tool for quantitative and qualitative measurements. Ready to learn more? Request a demo to speak with a member from our team.
Step-by-step XRF analysis
- X-rays are produced by the analyzer and pointed at a sample surface.
- The energy causes inner-shell electrons to be ejected.
- Outer-shell electrons fill the vacancies left by the ejected electrons and fluorescent x-rays are emitted.
- The fluorescent x-rays enter the detector and send electronic pulses to the preamp.
- The preamp amplifies the signals and sends them to the Digital Signal Processor (DSP).
- The DSP collects and digitizes the x-ray events and sends the spectral data to the main CPU for processing.
- The CPU analyzes the spectral data to produce detailed composition analysis.
- Composition data and other grade or value identification are displayed and stored in memory for later recall or download to an external PC