ResourceSpectroscopy
Micro-XRF Analysis for Metal Debris and Particle Analysis
7 Mar 2013The characterization of microscopic particles remains an important task for analysts, whether in forensic science (e.g. glass fragments, paint flakes, gunshot residues), environmental science (e.g. soil, atmospheric pollutants, cosmic dust), geology (e.g. rock particles for mining exploration) and engineering (engine wear debris). This application note demonstrates how the XGT-5000 micro-XRF is ideally suited for such work, with x-ray beams of 10 µm and 100 µm diameters allowing discrete analysis of the particles.
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X-Ray Diffraction and SpectroscopyX-Ray diffraction & spectroscopy are used in material characterization to discern the structure and elemental composition of a sample. X-Ray diffractometers (XRD) are superior instruments in elucidating the dimensional atomic structure of crystalline materials, including powders, thin films and single crystals. For large unit cells or ordered macromolecules, consider small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). X-ray spectroscopic techniques include X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), both providing simple and accurate methods for determining the elemental composition of a material. Energy dispersive (EDXRF) and wavelength dispersive (WDXRF) XRF spectrometers are available, as well as handheld/portable devices. High-resolution, 3D microstructure characterization of materials can be achieved with X-ray microscopes combining sub-micron resolution imaging with 3D computed tomography. Find the best XRD and XRF spectrometers in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Evidence Collection and AnalysisEvidence Collection and Analysis is the retrieval and subsequent investigation into criminal evidence obtained from a crime scene. Forensic genetic instruments, kits and reagents enable the analysis of evidence collected at the crime scene. Reagents and kits for presumptive analysis for body fluids such as blood, saliva and semen in addition to drugs and narcotics test kits are used for CSI. Fingerprinting equipment, forensic light sources, casting kits and equipment for collecting recoverable materials can be found in the directory.Particle CharacterizationParticle characterization instruments are used to determine particle size distribution, shape, surface area, zeta potential, density and porosity of particles and materials. Multiple tecchniques are available for determining particle size, shape and count including dynamic light scattering (DLS), laser diffraction, electrozone (Coulter technique), imaging particle analysis and single particle optical sensing. Determine the density of your material with a gas pycnometer or examine its surface area and porosity with gas adsorption analyzers and mercury porosimeters. Find the best particle characterization instruments in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.X-Ray FluorescenceX-ray fluorescence (XRF) is an analytical technique used to determine the elemental composition of materials. It is widely used in geology, materials science, and environmental testing for detecting heavy metals and other elements. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best XRF systems, compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Forensic InvestigationForensic investigation is a diverse collection of scientific techniques and methods for the identification and characterization of chemicals relating to crime scene investigations.Airborne PollutantsAirborne pollutants are particulates, biological molecules or other harmful materials that exist in the atmosphere. These pollutants are known to cause harm to health and the environment. Examples include persistent organic pollutants (POPs), carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides, and nitrogen oxides.Soil TestingSoil testing helps determine the nutrient content, pH level, and other factors affecting soil health. This information is critical for agriculture, environmental science, and land management. Explore soil testing solutions in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Mining