X-ray fluorescence (XRF)
X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is used to determine major and trace element composition.
XRF is a destructive method commonly used by geologists to characterise rocks and soils. We have a Bruker WDXRF S8 Tiger. XRF results can be complemented by X-ray diffraction (XRD), which determines mineral composition. Both methods, which are performed at the University of Waikato, can be used in conjunction with each other.
Other applications for XRF include environmental monitoring, pharmaceuticals, alloy identification, forensics, art and archaeology. We also have an Olympus Delta handheld XRF, aka portable or pXRF, which is useful for field work or when subsampling isn’t possible. Handheld XRF involves little to no sample preparation and is non-destructive.
Common Services
- Quantitative major element analysis
- Quantitative trace element analysis
- Handheld XRF hire
Materials Tested
- Rocks
- Soils
- Sea shells
- Metal products
Elements Analysed
Majors Method
Results given as oxide % weight
Results given as PPM
Sr, Ba
Traces Method
Results given as PPM
Sc, V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb, Mo, Sn, Sb, Cs, Ba, La, Ce, Nd, Tl, Pb, Th, U, F, S, Cl