Tech Team · Kintek Solution

The size of the sample needed for XRF (X-ray Fluorescence) analysis typically requires a sample surface of either 32 mm or 40 mm diameter for round pellets. This size is preferred to ensure adequate coverage and accuracy in the analysis. The choice between 32 mm and 40 mm depends on the specific requirements of the XRF spectrometer being used and the nature of the sample being analyzed.

Detailed Explanation:

1. Sample Size and Preparation:

   • Pellet Preparation: For XRF analysis, samples are often prepared in the form of pellets. These pellets are made by compressing powdered samples into a disc shape using a die. The standard sizes for these pellets are 32 mm or 40 mm in diameter. These sizes are chosen to match the requirements of the XRF spectrometers, which are designed to analyze samples of these dimensions.
   • Die Types: Different types of dies are available for preparing these pellets. One type has internal pressing pellets suitable for all sample types, while another type is designed for use with aluminum sample cups and features a highly polished plunger face. The choice of die depends on the specific characteristics of the sample and the desired level of sample preparation.

2. Sample Requirements Based on Material:

   • Food Samples: Typically require a lower compression force, around 2-4 tons, due to their softer composition.
   • Pharmaceutical Products: May require a higher compression force, up to 20 tons, which is ideal for manual XRF presses.
   • Mineral Ores: These may require the highest compression force, up to 40 tons, due to their hardness and density.

3. Alternative Preparation Techniques:

   • Fused Beads: This technique is used when better homogenization of the sample is required. The sample is ground to a fine particle size (<75 µm) and mixed with a flux (such as lithium tetraborate or a mixture of tetraborate/metaborate) in ratios ranging from 5:1 to 10:1. The mixture is then heated in a platinum crucible to high temperatures (up to 1,600 °C). However, this method has a limitation in that it may not detect trace elements effectively due to sample dilution.

4. Considerations for Sample Preparation:

   • The choice of sample preparation method depends on the quality of results required, the effort willing to be expended (labor, complexity), and the cost (equipment, labor, time to analysis). Different materials may require different preparation methods based on their analysis requirements.

In summary, the size of the sample needed for XRF analysis is typically 32 mm or 40 mm in diameter for round pellets, with specific preparation techniques and compression forces varying based on the type of material being analyzed. Proper sample preparation is crucial for accurate and reliable results in XRF analysis.

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