March 29th 2024
Here are the top five articles that the editors of Spectroscopy published this week.
In X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, physical traceability chains are used to quantify the absolute elemental content in a sample. The physical traceability chain relies on absolute knowledge of the X-ray spectral distribution used for the excitation of the instrument and is currently used at synchrotron radiation facilities. Here, we discuss the transfer of the physical traceability chain to laboratory-based X-ray sources, which are often polychromatic, with the view to generate wider application of quantitative XRF analysis.
Energy Dispersive XRF in Soil Analysis for the Agrifood Sector
November 2nd 2021In the agrifood sector, soil sampling and analysis is a prerequisite for accurate fertilizer management and to monitor the accumulation of heavy metals in soils. In this study, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) was used to analyze soils with variable textures (clay and sandy) and the percent recovery of elements was compared, as a measure of accuracy.
Raman Spectroscopy as a Tool for Rapid Feedback of Perovskite Growth Crystallinity and Composition
June 1st 2021Perovskites are known to be useful for fabrication of solar cells, and their crystalline structure plays an important role in their electronic properties. Here, we show how Raman analysis is able to confirm the presence of the required crystalline phase for solar cell production.
Combining Spectroscopy with Microscopy for Advancing the Analysis of Forensically Relevant Traces
July 1st 2020Forensic traces are physical remnants of past events that provide critical information for criminal and civil investigations and adjudications. The scientific examination of traces is an incredibly valuable tool for forensic investigations, because the skilled interpretation of traces yields factual answers to a range of pertinent questions.
Applying EDXRF to Agricultural Analysis
November 1st 2019EDXRF offers potential advantages over ICP-OES for elemental analysis in agriculture. Karen Daly and Anna Fenelon of the Agriculture and Food Development Authority of Ireland spoke to us about their work investigating agricultural applications of this technique.
Studying Gallstones and Kidney Stones with WDXRF
November 1st 2019The accumulation of heavy and toxic elements in gallstones and kidney stones can be studied using WDXRF spectroscopy. Here, Vivek K. Singh of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University in India talks about his work using this technique to understand the formation and content of these stones in the body.
Recent Developments in Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering
November 1st 2017There has been a resurgence in the application of small-angle X-ray scattering for a large range of problems in materials science. This article highlights experimental requirements and applications, with examples drawn from protein solutions, porous structures, and polymers.
Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry for Metals and Nanoparticle Analysis
June 8th 2016Total reflection x-ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectrometry is an energy-dispersive x-ray technique that is used for elemental and chemical analysis, and is especially suitable for small-sample analyses. Ursula Fittschen, an assistant professor at Washington State University, is working on elemental microscopy and micro analysis. She has been using TXRF to analyze stainless steel metal release, and also airborne silver nanoparticles (NPs) from fabrics. Here, she describes the advantages and challenges of this technique.