Abstract
M.Sc. (Chemistry)
In this investigation a monostandard calibration technique was
developed for multi-element X-ray fluorescence analysis.
A reliable method is described for the calculation of slopes of
calibration lines for thin-film and powder samples using monochromatic
as well as polichromatic excitation.
Theoretically calculated slopes for elements within one serles,
e.g. the K-series, were normalised .using one or two known slopes
for elements in the series. The mathematical equations used to
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interpolate slopes as a function of atomic number, were based on
the fundamental relationship between fluorescent intensity and
atomic number, fluorescent yield, detector efficiency, concentration
and mass absorption coefficients. Kramer's formula was used
to approximate the shape of the" primary radiation spectrum.
The method was applied to the analysis of the K-series elements,
with the use of thin-film and powder samples. The excitation was
achieved by the use of a molybdenum-, gold-, tungsten- and chrome
anodes.
The method was also applied to the analysis of the L-series powder
samples. The monochromatic excitation of the L-series elements,
achieved with the use of a molybdenum anode, is also described.
The polichromatic excitation of the L-series powder
samples was obtained with a molybdenum-, gold-, tungsten- and
chrome anode.