Total oxide X-ray analysis: ARL X900 Simultaneous/Sequential X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer

Significance of the Topic

Wavelength dispersive X ray fluorescence offers rapid multielement analysis across a wide concentration range in oxides and minerals. It overcomes particle size and mineralogical biases by employing fusion sample preparation, making it essential for quality control and research in cement, ceramics, refractories and other industrial materials.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note presents the factory pre calibrated ARL X900 WDXRF system for total oxide analysis. It outlines the calibration strategy, sample preparation by borate fusion, performance metrics including accuracy, precision, detection limits and repeatability for a broad set of oxide elements.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Sample preparation by fusion using lithium tetraborate and lithium metaborate flux at 1000 to 1100 °C to produce homogeneous glass beads
• Use of Katanax electric or Vulcan VAA2 and FLUXANA gas fusion machines for bead formation
• Calibration via multivariable regression in OXSAS software with theoretical alpha factors and loss on ignition correction
• Analysis on Thermo Fisher Scientific ARL X900 series WDXRF spectrometer operating at 1500 W to 4200 W without external cooling
• Configuration options include universal sequential goniometer or fixed channel monochromators for faster throughput
• Maintenance of calibration with stable polished setting up samples or on site with a certified 24 standard kit

Main Results and Discussion

• Calibration ranges cover oxides Al2O3 CaO Cr2O3 Fe2O3 K2O MgO MnO Na2O P2O5 SO3 SiO2 TiO2 with SEE values below 0.4 percent for most oxides
• Limits of detection from low ppm to sub percent levels depending on power setting and element
• Typical analysis times 4 to 40 seconds per element, total runs under five minutes for nine oxides with universal goniometer
• Short term repeatability standard deviations below 0.1 percent in rock, cement, and dolomite beads at 20 seconds per line

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Complete removal of particle size and mineralogical effects via fusion yielding high accuracy
• Wide dynamic range from trace ppm to 100 percent concentration
• No requirement for compressed air or external water cooling at moderate power settings
• Flexible instrument configuration for routine QAQC in cement plants, ceramic production, mineral exploration and geological laboratories

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances in detector technology and machine learning based matrix corrections promise further improvements in speed and precision. Integration with automated sample changers and cloud based data analysis will support high throughput workflows and remote monitoring of instrument performance.

Conclusion

The ARL X900 WDXRF spectrometer combined with borate fusion sample preparation and OXSAS software delivers robust, accurate oxide analysis across diverse materials. Its factory pre calibration and modular configuration enable rapid deployment and reliable long term performance.

References

• Thermo Fisher Scientific Application Note AN41424 2024