ABSTRACT
The nondestructive nature, easier sample preparation and simultaneous multi-element analysis capability of the Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF) Spectrometry, makes it an attractive technique for the elemental analysis of a wide range of materials. Optimised operating conditions enhance the detection efficiency and improve the minimum detection limits for several elements analysed in a group. The present study shows the performance of an ED-XRF system in analysing 15 important trace elements (V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Pb, Th, Rb, U, Sr, Y, Zr, and Nb) in soils and sediment samples. These elements were divided into two groups and were analysed at different operating conditions suitably optimized for each group. The grouping of the elements was done keeping in view the optimum excitation and detection condition requirement for each group of elements. The medium-Z elements (V, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Ga) were called as group “A” elements, while the rest were taken into group “B.” Well characterised soil and sediment reference samples were used to estimate the quality (precision and accuracy) of the analysis data produced by ED-XRF. Optimisation of the analysis procedure and achievable Minimum Detection Limits were studied. The analysis scheme may prove useful when a large number of soil and sediment samples are required to be analysed.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors are grateful to Dr. N. S. Virdi, Director WIHG, for encouragement and providing all necessary facilities for carrying out this work. The assistance rendered by Mr. Chandra Shekhar is also thankfully acknowledged.