Error Analysis in Fe-Rich Geological Samples by X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy: Fundamental Parameter Method

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) method, the application of Fundamental Parameter method on Fe-rich geological samples major and trace elements, the analysis of pressed powder formulation. XRF is a widely used method of so-called non-destructive analysis of the chemical composition of various solids determination. XRF method is relatively simple and inexpensive but non-quantitative analysis was hampered by several problems, such as matrix materials, for example, variability in the composition of the mineral. During operation of the instrument measurement parameters were optimized to eliminate matrix effect, lines overlap and interference. The method used to evaluate three different Fe / Al-rich and the associated deposition laterite matrix compatible certified reference material into which the theoretical intensity of the analytical lines which were compared to the measured intensity of the subject, and from the calibration curve was developed in which the samples were quantitated. Fundamental parameters measured with the standards and the geological composition of the samples of unknown composition, and characterized by a variety of validation - accuracy, linearity, trueness, accuracy and uncertainty. The test method was used to estimate the uncertainty of the Nordtest which the composition of the standards measurements repeated on different days was evaluated in a systematic component and a random component.