X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy is a classical method for the determination of the major and minor elements as well as some trace elements.
The advantages of using XRF are its accuracy, precision, rapid analytical time, the ability to present the sample as a solid, not a liquid, and its multi-element nature.
Lithium metaborate fusion and pressed pellet are the two industry-standard sample preparation techniques for X-ray fluorescence analysis. Lithium metaborate fusion is used for elements of low atomic number and pressed pellet for those of higher atomic number. Fusion involves melting the sample with flux and casting it into a glass disc and is appropriate for major element analysis. When trace element determinations are required or the samples have high concentrations of sulfide minerals, specialized fusions are required or the pressed pellet technique can be used. SGS will help you determine which method is best for your samples.
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