Positive Material Identification Utilizing X-Ray Fluorescence

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis is a reliable and non-destructive multi-element analysis method that is widely used in research and industrial applications. In this article, the advantages and limitations of handheld XRF analysis were discussed. Handheld XRF is portable, requires minimal sample preparation, and responds quickly. For alloy identification, one of the most common applications of XRF is often grade determination, which can be done in less than 40 seconds using handheld XRF. Handheld XRF is capable of quantifying more than 90% of the common alloying elements of the periodic table, from magnesium and heavier, which is about 72 elements. Due to the potential risk of working with ionizing radiation, the analysis should be performed by trained people and following safety precautions.