X-ray Fluorescence Binder Segregation Correction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quantitative X-ray fluorescence analysis of pressed powder samples is hindered by the assumption of sample homogeneity, which is not met due to binder segregation, leading to inaccurate results, especially when suitable reference standards are not available.
Innovation Solution
An iterative method is employed to model the analyzed volume of the specimen, allowing for the binder concentration to be treated as a variable parameter, either as a percentage or thickness of a thin layer, to correct for segregation and achieve accurate calculations of the sample's composition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If pressed powder samples with binder are used for X-ray fluorescence analysis, then sample preparation becomes simpler and more practical, but measurement accuracy deteriorates due to binder segregation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the parameter of binder concentration from a fixed value to a variable parameter that is iteratively adjusted during data evaluation. By allowing the binder concentration to vary and be optimized through iteration, the method accounts for segregation effects while maintaining the simplicity of pressed powder sample preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamics into the evaluation process by implementing an iterative procedure where the binder concentration is continuously adjusted and refined. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to the actual segregation state of the sample, improving measurement accuracy without changing the physical sample preparation method.
2Strength
If binder is added to pressed powder samples, then pellet strength increases to withstand operating conditions, but homogeneous distribution of binder becomes difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The invention addresses the homogeneity issue by changing the parameter of binder concentration from a uniform fixed value to a variable that can differ across the sample matrix. The iterative evaluation process allows different regions of the sample to have different effective binder concentrations, accounting for segregation while maintaining pellet integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If standard-less approaches are used for quantitative analysis, then analysis can proceed without suitable reference standards, but accuracy deteriorates when binder segregation is present
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enhances standard-less analysis by introducing variable binder concentration as an additional parameter to be optimized. This allows the method to compensate for segregation effects even without reference standards, maintaining both adaptability and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The iterative evaluation process incorporates feedback mechanisms where the calculated concentrations are continuously refined based on the assumed binder concentration. This feedback loop allows the system to self-correct for segregation effects, improving accuracy in standard-less analysis.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly improves the accuracy of X-ray fluorescence measurements by accounting for binder segregation, resulting in better agreement with reference values and enhanced reproducibility of sample composition analysis.
Implementation Method 1
Quantitative X-ray fluorescence measurements may be made by measuring the intensity of X-ray fluorescence and calculating a concentration of a particular element in the sample based on the measured intensity.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of quantitative X-ray analysis includes capturing X-ray fluorescence data from a pressed powder sample including a binder. A quantity and/or distribution of binder is assumed and the concentration of various components of the sample is calculated from the measured data and the assumed quantity of binder. Then, the concentration of binder is adjusted and the calculation step repeated until the method converges. The method is allowed to take widely different values of quantity of binder, which may be the concentration of the binder in the sample or alternatively the thickness of an assumed thin layer at the surface of a model used for calculation.