Analysis of Glass: Thermo Scientific ARL OPTIM’X WDXRF Sequential Spectrometer

Significance of the Topic

Accurate determination of oxide composition in glass is critical for quality control, product development and regulatory compliance in industries such as construction, automotive and electronics. Wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) offers rapid, non-destructive multi-element analysis with high precision, enabling detailed monitoring of major glass formers, stabilizers and coloring agents.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note evaluates the performance of the Thermo Scientific ARL OPTIM’X WDXRF spectrometer operating at 200 W for the analysis of soda-lime float glass. Calibration curves for key oxides/elements were established using certified standards, and precision and detection limits were assessed through repeated measurements on glass samples and blanks.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The ARL OPTIM’X is a sequential WDXRF instrument featuring a rhodium anode tube and SmartGonio multichromator assembly covering elements from fluorine (Z=9) to uranium (Z=92). Key analytical settings included 40 kV, 5 mA excitation, 0.29° collimator, and counting times of 10 s for major/minor oxides and up to 36 s for trace elements. A combination of flow proportional and scintillation counters collected characteristic lines (Kα, Kβ, Lα/β).

• SmartGonio multichromator for optimized sensitivity
• No water cooling required
• Windows®-based OXSAS software for operation and data processing

Main Results and Discussion

Limits of detection ranged from 1 ppm (ZrO₂) to 45 ppm (Na₂O), demonstrating suitability for both major and trace analysis. Repeatability tests (11 runs, 10 s) yielded standard deviations below 0.04 % for major oxides and under 7 ppm for trace oxides. Extending counting time to 36 s improved precision for elements at low concentrations.

Benefits and Practical Applications

High throughput analysis with minimal maintenance makes the ARL OPTIM’X well suited for routine glass manufacturing QA/QC. Its ability to handle both major glass network formers and coloring agents in a single run streamlines laboratory workflows and reduces sample preparation requirements.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Ongoing developments may include faster detectors and advanced software algorithms to further reduce counting times and enhance detection limits. Integration with automated sample changers and data management systems will broaden applicability to high-volume production and remote monitoring.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific ARL OPTIM’X WDXRF at 200 W delivers robust, precise analysis of soda-lime glass, covering major, minor and trace oxides in a rapid and reliable manner. Its performance supports stringent quality control and product innovation in glass manufacturing.

Reference

AN41733 Thermo Scientific ARL OPTIM’X WDXRF Sequential Spectrometer Application Note