Improved technique for quantitative EDXRF analysis of powdered plant samples

An improved technique for energy-dispersive x-ray fluorescence analysis of powdered plant samples is presented. It is based on the use of a special rotating and moveable sample holder (RMSH). This sample holder provides both controlled rotation and lateral transfer movements of the sample while a measurement is carried out, consequently simulating homogeneous excitation conditions over the sample. In this way it compensates for effects caused by the typical inhomogeneous distribution of intensity within the x-ray beam exciting the elements in the sample. The sample consists of powdered dry plant material deposited in an easy way on an adhesive tape, providing a stable layer of plant particl…