Radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis of minerals

The radionuclide X-ray fluorescence analysis can be used for the qualitative and quantitative determination of elements between Ca and U. It uses a principle identical to that of the conventional X-ray spectral analysis. For excitation, however, a suitable radionuclide is used and for spectrum analysis radiation detectors are applied. Analyzers are frequently designed as portable instruments suitable also for field measurement. The detection limit of elements depends on their atomic number and lies between 0.1 and 0.O1%. More complex types use semiconductor radiation detectors with better energy resolution, allowing to determine elements from sulfur to uranium. A computer is used for rapid evaluation of measured values. Examples are shown of different types of X-ray fluorescence analyzers. (Ha)