Chemical and phase analysis with micro X-ray fluorescence and powder X-ray diffraction

Micro X-ray fluorescence:

At RISE we use the M4 Tornado from Bruker. µXRF allowed us to obtain information (qualitative and semi quantitative) on the composition of a sample but also the elemental distribution.
The X-ray beam is highly focused, up to 20 µm in diameter, which gives excellent spatial resolution. The composition at any point can be determined, and the spatial distribution can be mapped when flat surface is analysed. Large samples can be placed in the chamber: up to 150 x 200 mm samples with a maximum height 120 mm and a maximum weight of 5 kg. The technology is optimized for analysis speed and a sample can be mapped within an hour (depending on its size and the resolution we want to obtain).

The vacuum chamber enables the detection of light elements although element with a molar mass lower than the one of sodium (e.g., carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, …) cannot be detected.

For elemental mapping a flat and levelled surface will give the best results. This preparation can be done by RISE.
Point analysis can be realised on a variety of samples: solids, powder, irregularly shaped objects, soils, …

Elemental mapping is very interesting to understand the changes in composition in a material due to for example its environment. For example, a μ-XRF can map substances onto a cross-sectional surface of concrete, which gives us the opportunity to follow the changes in the distribution of substances over the surface. This may be the key to elucidating some underlying mechanisms for the degradation of concrete.
The technology is of interest for many research areas, such as materials science (metals, cement and concrete, semiconductors, …), environmental science (sediment and soil, recycled materials, contamination analysis, …), electronics (printed circuit boards, chips.), Surface treatments, geology and archaeology.

X-ray diffraction:

We use a MiniFlex from Rigaku. XRD is mainly used for the qualitative analysis of the different crystalline phases that can compose a material (for example minerals or inorganic compounds). The characterisation of unknown solids is important in many fields, such as geology, environmental science, material science, engineering and biology.
XRD is a rapid technique (approx. 30 min) for the identification of a material.

A minimal sample preparation is required: the sample is only finely powdered and homogenized. This can be done at RISE.