Five Reasons to Upgrade to a Next-Generation ED-XRF Analyzer

Sometimes a difference in degree can be so significant it becomes a difference in kind. That’s the case with energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF) analyzer technology, where numerous improvements redefine their class. Enhancements include quantitative analysis functionality; wider analytical scope for more elements and lower concentration levels; higher sample throughput; lower cost of ownership; and greater ease of use.

As a result, a modern ED-XRF instrument, for many applications, matches or surpasses the performance of a more expensive wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WD-XRF) analyzer.

Here’s a quick summary of five reasons why upgrading to next-generation ED-XRF analyzers might be the right choice to optimize performance, efficiency, and affordability.

(For a more detailed review with specific examples, figures, and data tables, download "Five Reasons to Upgrade to a Next-Generation ED-XRF Analyzer." No registration is required.)

1. Breakthrough quantitative analysis

Traditionally, ED-XRF instruments are applied exclusively as qualitative analysis tools or to analyze just a few elements in a specific matrix. But due to improvements in excitation, detection, and calculation algorithms, new ED-XRF analyzers can also perform quantitative analysis — determining what elements are present and what concentrations for a wide range of elements — even for completely unknown samples.

2. Added analytical capabilities

The latest-generation ED-XRF instruments have also introduced a welcome array of new analytical functionalities, including provision for analyzing more elements plus a wider range of sample concentration levels. Screening capabilities are greatly improved. ED-XRF analyzer manufacturers have worked to improve sensitivity with each successive instrument generation. Previously, obtaining some limits of detection would have required a WD-XRF analyzer at double the cost of an ED-XRF.

3. Outstanding sample throughput

Numerous users require an analyzer to deliver high sample throughput and short measurement times. Once the exclusive domain of WD-XRF instruments, the new high-sensitivity detection system of one advanced ED-XRF can provide such performance. Analysis times can also be cut dramatically. For many simple tasks, measurements are available in seconds. A comprehensive screening that took 20 minutes with previous ED-XRF models can be completed in 2 minutes or less.

4. Lower cost of ownership

Advanced ED-XRF analyzers still exhibit significantly lower initial investment and long-term operation/ownership costs than WD-XRF spectrometers. Yet new generation ED-XRF analyzers can provide comparable performance for many applications, besting most WD-XRF analyzers with lower power consumption, longer component life cycle, and less costly replacements. Finally, gas consumption flexibility delivers more savings.

5. Ensured ease of use

Continuous efforts simplifying operator interactions have provided some ED-XRF instruments with even greater user benefits: Users may request their application-specific configurations or choose from among packages precalibrated for common applications. More flexible and convenient workflow and sample handling. A more versatile measurement chamber. Redesigned and optimized operating software improves ease of learning and use.

Conclusion

ED-XRF technology has made great strides so that now more than ever, not all analyzers are created equal.

Lab managers are recommended to examine their current instruments and review the new functionality — quantitative performance, additional analytical capabilities, increased throughput, lower cost of ownership, and greater ease of use — that the best new ED-XRF analyzers can offer. And such decisive advantages could render the consideration to upgrade inevitable.

For a more detailed review with specific examples, figures, and data tables, download "Five Reasons to Upgrade to a Next-Generation ED-XRF Analyzer." No registration is required.