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X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectrometry
Field Science
NEIC uses two types of field portable x-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometers. One contains radionuclides Cd-109 and Am-241 to provide x-rays for the analysis of all eight RCRA metals (Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, and Se). The other contains a silver anode x-ray tube that does not contain radionuclide sources. The silver anode x-ray tube XRF can analyze the RCRA metals except for Cd, Ag, and Ba. The advantage of the silver anode x-ray tube XRF is the ergonomic design of the instrument which allows the analyst to operate the instrument while wearing heavy gloves. Also, the silver anode x-ray tube XRF does not require radioactive materials licensing or shipping exemptions. Both XRF instruments have provided reliable screening data in accordance with EPA Method 6200, Field Portable X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry for the Determination of Elemental Concentrations in Soil and Sediment. Several field investigations have benefited from the XRF instrument in various modes from safety monitoring to site screening.