Atomic spectrometry update. X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

Margaret West, Andrew T. Ellis, Philip J. Potts, Christina Streli, Christine Vanhoof, Dariusz Wegrzynek and Peter Wobrauschek

This is the latest review covering atomic spectrometric activities using XRF techniques. It offers a comprehensive review of instrumentation and detectors, matrix correction and spectrum analysis procedures, X-ray optics and micro-fluorescence, SRXRF, TXRF plus handheld and portable XRF as assessed from the published literature. As techniques mature, the application sections have expanded to report developments in sample preparation, geological and industrial minerals, environmental, archaeological, forensic, biological, clinical, thin films, chemical state and speciation studies. They also reflect how the XRF technique is increasingly being used to provide analytical measurements that are then combined with results from more specialised techniques to report comprehensive material characterisation. The commercial availability of silicon drift detectors (SDD) has transformed the handheld EDXRF market this year by extending in situ analytical capabilities down to magnesium. Imaging techniques that provide either 2D or 3D mapping facilities continue to feature this year along with further developments in SR and TXRF systems.