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Some methods of X-ray spectral analysis used by Russian researchers to determine the elemental composition of medicinal plants are considered. The review focuses on the articles published in Russian journals over the past 20 years. Researchers utilize wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF), energy dispersive XRF (EDXRF), synchrotron radiation XRF (SRXRF), and total reflection XRF (TXRF) spectrometry; electron probe microanalysis, and scanning electron microscopy to analyze both macro- and microelement contents in medicinal plants. The simultaneous determination of macro- and microelements, coupled with nondestructive sample preparation, makes XRF spectrometry an attractive method for identifying and monitoring the chemical composition of plants, especially those employed in medical practice. Most published studies provide comprehensive information on sample preparation and measurement procedures, present metrological evaluations, and discuss the results obtained. However, some publications lack essential methodological details, and misprints in the presented analytical data occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Society's need for safe flame‐retardant technologies in passive fire protection is undeniable. To address this concern, this paper presents an experimental investigation of the fire‐retardant properties of slash pine wood treated with banana plant pseudostem sap, obtained from a cultivated banana plant variety widely grown in Brazil. The natural sap extract was characterized through X‐Ray Fluorescence spectrometry and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy techniques, revealing the presence of key components, including water, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, sodium silicate, calcium phosphate, sodium phosphate, lignin and tannins. The authors explored different treatment parameters, including various sap impregnation times, number of impregnations and use of natural versus various levels of concentrated sap. First, a horizontal burning test, similar test to UL 94 HB, was used to obtain an initial assessment of the suitability of sap as a flame retardant for slash pine wood. Subsequently, the Mass Loss Calorimeter equipment with thermopile attachment described in ISO 13927:2015 was used to measure various heat release rate parameters. The findings suggest that reducing the water content in sap and increasing the number of repeat treatments results in a more effective treatment for slash pine wood. More specifically, the results indicate that the most efficient treatment involves three impregnations with high‐concentration (1/10 volume reduction) sap. Future work to improve the efficacy of the concentrated sap impregnation process could explore the use of pressure treatment instead of soaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of solid solutions in the KNd(SO4)2·H2O–SrSO4·0.5H2O system, synthesized from aqueous solutions of KCl, NdCl3, SrCl2, and H2SO4, was studied by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. Coefficients of calibration dependences for intensity vs. element concentrations were calculated for Nd, Sr, and K by the least-squares technique. A linear approximation function was used in determining potassium and a parabolic approximation function was recommended in determining neodymium and strontium. The obtained dependences are characterized by low (<1%) relative approximation errors. In the analytical ranges (wt %) for K 0.863−8.892, Sr 8.41−38.03, and Nd 5.296−29.30, the standard deviations were 0.012−0.028, 0.008−0.098, and 0.05−0.27 respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major challenge in plant mineral nutrition monitoring has been determining the concentrations of various elements in tissues. This is done to evaluate the availability and sufficiency of essential and beneficial elements and prevent elemental toxicities. Here, we present a rapid, safe, and accurate procedure for the simultaneous multi-elemental analysis using wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (WDXRF) coupled with an isotope ratio mass spectrometer (EA-IRMS). Both techniques' applicability, accuracy, and precision were verified by analyzing International Plant-analytical Exchange-Standard Reference Materials (IPE-SRMs). In both methods, there was an excellent agreement of experimental and certified values within allowable standard deviation in the range of 10 ppm to 5% (in most cases R² > 0.99). Likewise, there were no significant differences in measured and certified values at a 99% confidence level. There was still decent agreement for concentrations of less than 10 ppm for most but not all elements. The accuracy and versatility of multi-element analyses through WDXRF and EA-IRMS prove that these techniques offer relevant advantages in speed and analytical costs per element. Both methods can be handy in providing immediate analytical results, as sample digestion is not required. Hence, time-critical plant nutrition monitoring and appropriate management can easily be achieved and implemented. Additionally, both techniques can quantify elements that are otherwise tedious to determine by other analytical methods (e.g. P, S, Sr, Cl, Ti) but are needed in understanding the processes of plant biology, ionomics, and elemental tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This chapter (Principles and Practice of X‐Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry – 1: Fundamentals of XRF and Matrix Corrections) is a contribution to the Geostandards and Geoanalytical Research Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis – an online textbook that is a fully revised and updated edition of the Handbook of Silicate Rock Analysis (P. J. Potts, 1987, Blackie, Glasgow). Chapter 6, Part 1 (from Section 2 of the handbook dealing with techniques for the determination of major and trace elements) considers the fundamentals of XRF spectrometry and matrix corrections in detail. Part 2 deals with wavelength dispersive and energy dispersive instrumentation. Following an introduction dealing with the analytical characteristics of XRF spectrometry, Part 1 continues with a detailed consideration of the origin and excitation of X‐ray spectra. Sub‐chapters that tackle the interaction of X‐rays with matter and the matrix effect in geological materials follow this. Part 1 is concluded with a mathematical treatment of the correction of absorption‐enhancement effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes a two-stage technique of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of rare earth niobates. A comparison between the two approaches revealed that the Fundamental Parameters Method (FPM) can be employed for a rapid preliminary assessment of the composition of the resulting material and the construction of calibration curves can be used to determine the contents of the major elements with precision. The results of the relative standard deviation (RSD) for FPM were no more than 7%, while the approach to construct calibration curves had an RSD of no more than 1%. Calibration samples were prepared using the same synthesis method as the study samples to construct the calibration curves. The possibility of constructing calibration dependencies using mixtures of oxides was assessed, but this approach could not provide the desired accuracy. The obtained results have been shown to have a good correlation with inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. The developed technique enables the determination of the major components in niobates containing two and three rare earth elements, which are used as optical materials and medium-entropy ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to larger collections of Mapuche artifacts acquired during the prolonged stays of Milan Stuchlík (1932-1980) and Václav Šolc (1919-1995) in Araucania, Chile, during the 1960s and 1970s, the Náprstek Museum also houses two smaller collections of Mapuche jewellery. The first four jewels were purchased from Eduard Tauer in 1896 and two more pieces were acquired in 2024 from the estate of diplomat Stanislav Svoboda (1926-2015). This article serves as the first introduction to the Mapuche jewellery collection originating from these two collectors. It examines the use, age, and material composition of the artifacts and the collectors responsible for the acquisitions and compares this collection with the Mapuche jewellery collection in the Weltmuseum Vienna. Furthermore, the article outlines potential avenues for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monochromatic excitation X-ray fluorescence (ME-XRF) spectrometry is a novel technique for trace element analysis, characterized by its simplicity, rapidity, and low cost. The objective of this study was to evaluate the applicability of ME-XRF technique for the measurement of thallium in biological samples. Acute and subacute thallium poisoning experiments were conducted to simulate various scenarios, with blood, urine, and 10 distinct organs collected. Detection was initially performed using ME-XRF technique, followed by validation with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Excellent agreement between ME-XRF and ICP-MS values was demonstrated by means of paired sample t-tests and intraclass correlation coefficients. Subsequently, the practical implementation of the proposed technique was demonstrated through an actual case study. In conclusion, this study validates ME-XRF as a suitable alternative to ICP-MS for the measurement of trace heavy metals in biological samples. These efforts promote the development of simpler and faster techniques for heavy metal detection, thereby presenting novel avenues for the prevention and diagnosis of heavy metal poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preconcentration of strontium and barium as complexes with 11 organic reagents by coprecipitation with organic co-precipitants for their subsequent determination by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry is studied. The most effective systems turned out to be those included reagents from bisazosubstituted chromotropic acids, nitchromazo and chlorophosphonazo III. Complexes of these metals are virtually quantitatively coprecipitated as pairs with cations of the brilliant green dye, of the collector is an associate of an excess of the analytical reagent with cations of this dye. It is shown that the additional use of polyvinyl butyral as an indifferent co-precipitant ensures not only the almost complete extraction of these elements from solutions, but also the preparation of emitter concentrates suitable for X-ray fluorescence measurements using the standard-background technique. High efficiency allows, under optimal conditions, the achievement of very low limits of detection (IUPAC): 0.03 μg/mL Sr and 0.19 μg/mL Ba, even in working with small samples (by volume). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The iron sand around Mt. Aburayama (Fukuoka, Japan), where various ancient iron‐making sites are located, was investigated to establish a research infrastructure for identification of the raw material used in the archeological iron artifacts excavated from this area. Iron sand samples were magnetically collected from the rivers flowing in this area and nearby outcrop soil. The samples were qualitatively analyzed using Mössbauer spectroscopy and x‐ray diffractometry to identify the minerals present inside them. Additionally, the elemental concentrations in these samples were determined using x‐ray fluorescence spectrometry. The iron sand samples were characterized by comparing them with those from other Japanese regions using scatter diagrams developed based on the elemental concentrations in the samples. The scatter diagrams showed clear distinctions between the iron sand samples from the Mt. Aburayama area and other Japanese regions. These diagrams may enable us to clarify the relationship between the iron sand and archeological iron artifacts found in the vicinity of Mt. Aburayama. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An overview of publications dedicated to the application of various X-ray fluorescence techniques for investigating the chemical composition of ancient ceramics and clays is presented. Examples of conventional wavelength dispersive and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometers, portable X-ray analyzers, spectrometers with polycapillary optics (micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometry), and total reflection geometry are considered. Although X-ray fluorescence serves as the analytical signal in all cases, the listed X‑ray fluorescence techniques differ in the range of analytes, methods of sample preparation, and methods for calculating element concentrations. The author experience in applying the described techniques of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to a comprehensive study of archaeological materials from the Stone Age for the historical reconstruction of economic activities in the Baikal Siberia population is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review covers characteristics and potential applications of various versions of the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry for analyzing both liquid and solid samples. Particular emphasis is given to research published within the past decade, as information on XRF's previous applications can be found in earlier reviews and monographs. The results of experiments on determining fundamental atomic parameters, such as mass absorption coefficients, fluorescence yields, transition probabilities for the emission of specific lines of elements, and nonradiative transition probabilities. Additionally, the review addresses the capabilities of newly designed models of XRF spectrometers developed in recent years. The application of total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for diverse samples is examined in greater detail. Furthermore, the document presents data on the utilization of XRF in investigating nanoparticles of some typical materials. These particles exhibit qualitatively novel properties and have become a focal point of nanotechnology, an area rapidly developing in the last few decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Understanding the elements that support cataract development and searching for available therapeutic methods is essential for scientific and social interest. For that purpose, the role of trace elements has been investigated in this study to better understand the development of cataracts in dogs. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the ratio of the major and trace elements by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry in dog cataract lenses to contribute to diagnostic, non-surgical, and ophthalmological preventive data. Methods: A single lens with a cataract from each of a total of 88 dogs (cataract group) and a healthy lens from each of 6 dogs (control group) were evaluated. The elements calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), and potassium (K) were analyzed by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and X-ray microfluorescence. Results: The results indicated an increase of Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn, in association with the reabsorption mechanism of hypermature cataracts. Conclusions: The ratio of elements Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn was different in cataract lenses than in healthy lenses, and our results may support the development of therapeutic strategies for cataracts in dogs. The Ca concentrations were distinct in the cataract development stages, and the Fe concentration was relatively higher in males when compared to females. Finally, this research stands out with a particular contribution to the understanding of both cataract formation and prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) has been widely used for multi-element determination in various samples. However, when trace level determination is required, separation and preconcentration procedures are often used as a step before detection to avoid or reduce interferences and to increase sensitivity. Liquid-phase extraction (LPE) is one of the most well-known and applied pretreatment techniques associated with atomic spectrometry due to its simplicity, speed, and ease of automation. A review of methods involving LPE combined with XRF is presented. Methods described in the literature are discussed, involving conventional LPE and the three main categories of liquid-phase microextraction (LPME): single-drop microextraction (SDME), dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME), and hollow fiber liquid-phase microextraction (HF-LPME). Characteristics of the methods are presented, considering experimental aspects, analytical features, advantages, and disadvantages. In addition, trends in the association between LPME techniques and XRF are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at determining the concentrations of rare earth elements (REEs) in coal and coal fly ash (CFA) from three coal mines in Tanzania: Kiwira, Ngaka and Rukwa. The goal was to assess if these resources could be commercially viable for extracting REEs. Coal and CFA samples were analysed using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The total concentrations of REEs in the coal samples ranged from 89.48 parts per million (ppm) to 196.30 ppm, while in CFA samples, ranged from 362.55 ppm to 475.77 ppm. Computed percentage of critical REEs (REYdef, rel%) and outlook coefficient (Coutl) values ranged from 27.41% to 50.74% and 0.62 to 2.00, respectively. Based on the evaluation criteria proposed for assessing coal and coal ash as sources of REEs, the results suggest that the studied coal and CFA samples have the potential to be used as sources of REEs for economic development. These findings have important implications for the Tanzanian government and other relevant authorities, as they provide valuable insights into the feasibility of investing in the coal and coal ash as promising sources of REEs. This is particularly significant considering the high global demands for REEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The contents of many heavy metals in soil in many areas of southwest China are much higher than the national soil background value, and related studies show that most heavy metals in soil are in a state of “high background and low activity”, which is closely related to the special geological process in the area. Most scholars have concentrated more on the weathering process and post-weathering heavy metals of granite, basalt, carbonate rocks and other geological bodies with high background value of heavy metals in southwest China. However, alkali-enriched porphyry also has the characteristics of high background value of heavy metals, and the geochemical behavior characteristics of heavy metals in the weathering process of alkali-enriched porphyry are less studied. The ecological and environmental effects of heavy metal element migration and transformation during weathering are still unclear. There is a large-scale alkali-enriched porphyry belt located in southwest China. Most of the alkali-enriched porphyry areas have precious metals such as gold and silver, and polymetallic deposits such as copper, lead and zinc. Therefore, soil in alkali-enriched porphyry areas usually has the characteristic of high background value of heavy metals. OBJECTIVES For identifying geochemical characteristics of heavy metal elements and a series of ecological and environmental problems during the soil-forming process of alkali-enriched porphyry, to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of heavy metal pollution in alkali-enriched porphyry areas and rational planning of agricultural planting. METHODS For sufficient hydrothermal conditions and strong soil-forming in Yunnan Province, a rock weathering profile of Yao’an alkali-enriched porphyry in central Yunnan Province was selected as the research object. The contents of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn, Al2O3, TFe2O3, CaO, Na2O, K2O, MgO, SiO2, organic carbon and pH in rock/soil samples were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry/optimal emission spectrometry (ICP-MS/OES), atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) and volumetric method. Multivariate statistics method and mass migration coefficient were used to study the distribution characteristics, migration and enrichment rules of heavy metal elements in the weathering profile, as well as the factors affecting the migration and enrichment of heavy metals. RESULTS Based on the analysis of the content and distribution characteristics of eight heavy metals in the weathering profile of Yao’an alkali-enriched porphyry, the migration and enrichment mechanism of heavy metals during the weathering process was identified, and the environmental risk assessment of the surface soil in the area was carried out. (1) In the weathering profile, all the weathering strata have the same source as the bedrock material, and there is no exogenous addition. Different degrees of desiliconization and aluminum-iron enrichment occur in the whole weathering process, especially in the surface layer. In the bottom-up evolution process, all of the heavy metal elements except Cd show an overall trend of increasing content. As, Cr, Cu, Hg and Ni are enriched to different degrees during weathering, while Cd, Pb and Zn are leaching out. The order of heavy metal migration capacity from strong to weak is Cd>Zn>Pb>Hg>Cu>As>Ni>Cr. As, Cr, Cu, and Hg have similar geochemical behavior, as do Cd, Pb, and Zn. (2) Cd, Pb and Zn occur mainly in feldspar minerals and lead-zinc metallic minerals and exhibit the characteristics of migration and leaching under acidic and strong leaching conditions. Although the bedrock is obviously deficient in Cu, Cr, Ni and Hg, it is eventually enrichedin-situ in clay minerals and Al and Fe oxides/hydroxides with weathering due to its own chemical properties and the effect of desilication to enrich aluminum and iron. The enrichment of As is mainly controlled by aluminum-Fe enrichment, and the strong aluminum-Fe enrichment in the study area results in the in-situ secondary enrichment of As. (3) The soil ecological environment in the study area may be polluted by As and Pb due to the high content of Pb in the bedrock and the effect of aluminum-iron enrichment. CONCLUSIONS The risk of As and Pb pollution may exist in the soil ecological environment of the study area, and a large amount of Pb leaching may migrate into the Dragonling River with surface runoff. It is necessary to strengthen the monitoring of heavy metals such as As and Pb in the overlying soil of alkali-enriched porphyry and heavy metals such as Pb and Zn in the rivers around alkali-enriched porphyry so as to ensure ecological safety.

BACKGROUND The emerald is loved by people because of its gorgeous color and is respected as one of the world's four major gems. Due to the high value of emeralds, a variety of synthesis and optimization methods have emerged. The hydrothermal method is one of the common methods to produce synthetic emeralds. The emeralds synthesized by this method have typical water ripple texture, showing a serrated parallel arrangement, and the characteristic peaks of the infrared absorption spectrum in the range of 2300-3100cm-1 are the main identification feature. However, some emeralds synthesized by this method do not have the above typical characteristics. This has brought a great challenge to the quality inspection agencies, and brought many doubts to the majority of consumers, and affected the stability of the gem market. OBJECTIVES It is essential to study the new emerald synthesized by this new hydrothermal method. The refractive index, density, polychromatism, and infrared absorption spectrum characteristics of the tested samples are very similar to those of natural emeralds, so infrared absorption spectrum analysis cannot obtain the supporting evidence of its cause. Based on this, the gemological and spectral characteristics of the test samples were studied by ultraviolet visible spectrum, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF) and other spectroscopic means. Finally, the test samples were determined to be a new kind of emerald synthesized by the hydrothermal method. METHODS The refractive index, birefringence, relative density, polychromaticity and weight of the samples were tested by refractometer, electronic balance, and dichroic mirror. The internal and external characteristics of the test samples, the cutting and polishing quality of the samples, and the characteristics of internal inclusions were observed by gem microscope. The infrared reflection spectrum and infrared transmission spectrum characteristics of the samples were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and compared with the infrared spectrum characteristics of emeralds from different origins. The absorption spectrum characteristics of the samples were analyzed by ultraviolet-visible spectrometer, focusing on the absorption peak characteristics near 830nm. The element characteristics of the samples were tested by EDXRF, because the content characteristics of Cr and Ni in emerald are the key to identify whether it is natural or not. RESULTS The mass of the tested samples was 0.17-0.56g, the refractive index was 1.571-1.588, the birefringence was 0.007-0.009, the relative density was 2.56-2.78, and the polychromaticity was obviously blue-green/green. These conventional gemological characteristics were consistent with natural emeralds. The samples were observed under a gemstone microscope, and the samples had a parallel texture of suspected water ripple, but not typical. The water ripple texture of the typical hydrothermal synthetic emeralds was serrated parallel arrangement. However, the characteristics under the gem microscope should arouse the suspicion of jewelry inspectors.The infrared reflectance spectra of the samples had characteristic peaks of 1242, 1219, 1022, 968, 810, 741, 687, 594, 528, 490, and 459cm-1. The characteristic peaks of 1242, 1219, 1022, 968, 810, 741, and 687cm-1 were caused by the stretching vibration of Si—O—Si and O—Si—O, and the characteristic peaks of 594, 528, 490, and 459cm-1 were caused by the bending vibration of Si—O and the vibration of M—O. The infrared reflection spectrum characteristics of the samples were consistent with the infrared spectrum characteristics of beryl, but the infrared spectrum characteristics of the fingerprint area could not indicate whether the samples were natural or synthetic.The infrared transmission spectra of the samples had 5445, 5273, 5109, 4874, 4800, 4650, 4547, 3321, 3222, 3027, 2953, 2928, and 2431cm-1 characteristic peaks. 5273cm-1 was caused by typeⅡ water absorption, 5445cm-1 and 5109cm-1 were caused by typeⅠ water absorption. The typeⅡ water absorption peak of the test samples was relatively sharp at 5273cm-1, and the typeⅠ water absorption peaks at 5445cm-1 and 5109cm-1 were relatively strong. Compared with previous studies, the shape and intensity of water absorption peaks of natural emerald and hydrothermally synthesized emerald were different. The infrared absorption spectrum characteristics of the water of the test sample were different from those of natural emerald, but the diagnostic direct evidence could not be obtained from the infrared absorption spectrum. The infrared peak in the range of 2300-3100cm-1 is caused by Cl- ion absorption. According to the results of previous studies, the absorption intensity of hydrothermal synthetic emeralds in this wavenumber range was significantly stronger than that of natural emeralds. The infrared absorption spectra of the test samples were relatively weak in the range of 2300-3100cm-1, which was more similar to the infrared absorption spectrum characteristics of natural emeralds in Colombia, Yunnan, Madagascar and Brazil, and was obviously different from the infrared absorption spectrum results of emeralds synthesized by the hydrothermal method. There were obvious differences between the infrared transmission absorption spectra of the traditional hydrothermal synthetic emeralds and natural emeralds. The characteristics of infrared absorption spectra are important evidence for identifying the genesis of emeralds. However, it is difficult to obtain the final accurate conclusion from the infrared absorption spectrum analysis of the test samples described in this paper, so they have been named 'new' type.The UV-Visible spectrum characteristics of the test samples showed that the absorption peak below 350nm was caused by the Fe2+-O2- charge transfer band in emerald, the absorption peak at 429nm was caused by Cr3+ ions, the broad absorption band at 550-650nm was mainly caused by Cr3+ ions, the absorption peak at 683nm was caused by Cr3+ ions, the sharp absorption peak at 956nm was caused by water absorption, and the broad absorption peak near 850nm should be caused by Fe2+ absorption, which was rarely seen in the previous hydrothermal synthesis of emerald. The combination of Cr3+ and Fe3+ replacing Al3+ makes emerald, green. The absorption peak of UV-Visible spectrum caused by Fe2+ in natural emerald was in the range of 810-850nm, and only a few of the absorption bands caused by Fe2+ in natural emeralds are not obvious. The absorption band of the UV-Visible spectra of the test samples was not obvious or weak in the range of 810-850nm, and the 850nm absorption peak of individual samples was obvious. Therefore, the emeralds examined by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy may be synthetic, but this could not be conclusively confirmed.The EDXRF results showed that the samples had Fe, Ni and Cr elements, which was different from previous studies of natural emeralds. Yang Zhuo(2010) studies showed that the main trace elements in natural emeralds, from different origins such as Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, India, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Canada by LA-ICP-MS, were Fe, V, Cr, Mg, Na and Cs, but the content of Ni was very low, far lower than that of Cr. The content of Cr in Yunnan emeralds was 58-177μg/g, and Ni was not detected (Bai et al., 2019). The chemical element characteristics of gem-grade emeralds in Afghanistan, Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, Madagascar, Russia, Zambia and Zimbabwe showed that Ni element was not detected (Karampelas et al., 2019). The elemental composition of emeralds from South Africa, Afghanistan, Australia, Colombia, Egypt, Madagascar, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and China was analyzed by electron probe microanalysis, and Ni was not detected (Lum et al., 2016). It could be seen that Cr and Fe elements coexisted in natural emeralds, but Ni was almost non-existent. EDXRF was used in this study without quantitative analysis but calibrated by the gold standard sample, and the relative peak intensity of the element was of great significance. The peak intensity of the Ni element in the test sample was much higher than that of the Cr element, which did not conform to the element content characteristics of the natural emerald, and was consistent with the high content of Ni in the hydrothermal synthesis of emerald reported by Lu and Shen (2021) and Yang et al.(2022). The comprehensive analysis showed that the test sample was a synthetic emerald. CONCLUSIONS The infrared absorption spectrum characteristics of the test samples are similar to those of natural emeralds, and the infrared absorption spectrum could not be used as a basis for identifying the genesis of emeralds. Previous studies show that a set of absorption peaks in the range of 2300-3100cm-1 in the infrared absorption spectrum is an important identification feature of the hydrothermal synthesis of emeralds, but this feature is not obvious in the tested samples. The UV-Visible spectrum of the sample shows that the absorption band near 810-850nm related to Fe2+ is not obvious. The X-ray fluorescence spectra of the samples show that the Kα peak intensity of Ni is much higher than that Kα of Cr, which is the main feature of the new emerald synthesized by the hydrothermal method. It could be seen from the experimental results that the identification of jewelry and jade is a systematic work. It is necessary to learn from the previous results and combine the comprehensive analysis of various detection methods to obtain the correct result.

The main fluorine-concentrating minerals in rocks are mainly apatites, amphiboles, micas, fluorites, sphenes, villiomites, in which fluorine is found in compounds with Ca, Mg, Na. The yield of the X‑ray fluorescence of fluorine depends on the element with which it is chemically bound. Taking into account this factor, three versions of calibration dependences for fluorine in the composition of CaF2, MgF2, and NaF were obtained using pressed tablets. Mixtures of these fluorides with granite, basalt, and limestone were used for calibration. To select an adequate calibration for the determination of fluorine in a batch of unknown samples, it was proposed to use the results of a selective analysis of fused samples of the batch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, four analytical techniques for the detection of Sc, La, Ce, Nd, Sm, Eu, Tb and Lu in volcanic rock specimens from Ghana have been compared. These rock samples were examined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and instrumental neutron activation analysis. The Am-241 excitation-based X-ray fluorescence accuracies were good for Y, La, Ce, Nd, Eu, and the results were comparable to inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and instrumental neutron activation analysis except Silver-anode X-ray tube X-ray fluorescence. This demonstrates the limitations of the tube-based X-ray fluorescence excitation system for rare earth elements analysis, primarily caused by interference between the K-series X-ray emission from the transition metals and the relatively low intensities of L-series lines of the rare earth elements. Data on the precision and accuracy of these methods were based on IAEA SOIL-7 reference material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The quality of soil is directly related to human health and the safety of agricultural products, which has important references for agricultural planting and land planning. As an important vegetable basket base in Chengdu, Tangchang Town has developed agricultural planting, but the recent soil quality in the region is still unclear. OBJECTIVES In order to accurately understand the current content of nutrient and heavy metal elemental characteristics and soil quality grade of topsoil in the Tangchang agricultural planting area. METHODS According to 1∶50000 soil quality geochemical survey, 810 topsoil samples were collected. The contents of N, P, K, As, Cd, Hg, Pb, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se and pH in these soil samples were determined by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, atomic fluorescence spectrometry, element analyzer and ion selective electrode method. The element geochemical characteristics and soil nutrient grade, soil environmental quality grade and comprehensive soil geochemical grade were then evaluated. RESULTS (1) Compared with the general topsoil in China, Zn and Pb in the topsoil of the study area are slightly enriched, Se is relatively enriched, N, P, Cd and Hg are strongly enriched. The topsoil is generally weakly acidic. (2) The comprehensive grade of soil nutrients is rich in second grade, accounting for 88.0% of the area, and the soil fertility is rich. The proportion of the first grade soil area in the environmental quality grade of the eight heavy metal elements in the soil is more than 96.0%, and the comprehensive environmental quality grade is dominated by first grade clean type, accounting for 98.06%. The comprehensive quality of soil is mainly grade one, accounting for 85.85%. (3) The area of selenium-rich soil in the region is 2.49km2, accounting for 3.7%, sporadically distributed in the central study area. Copper-rich soil area is 63.13km2, accounting for 94.0%, and zinc-rich soil area is 63.31km2, accounting for 94.17%. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the nutrients of topsoil in Tangchang Town are rich, the soil environment is clean and the comprehensive quality of the soil is high.

The determination of mineral concentrations in rice grain samples is crucial for analyzing their nutritional content. Most mineral content analysis techniques depend on inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry and are often complicated, expensive, time-consuming, and laborious. Recently, the handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer has been randomly used in earth sciences; however, it is hardly practiced in quantifying mineral content in rice samples. In this research, the reliability of XRF results was compared with that of the ICP-OES to determine zinc (Zn) concentration in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Approximately 200 dehusked rice samples and four known high-Zn samples were analyzed using both XRF and ICP-OES techniques. The concentrations of Zn were recorded using the XRF technique and then correlated with the ICP-OES results. The results indicated a high positive relationship between two methods, with R2 = 0.83, p = 0.000, and the Pearson correlation value of 0.91 at the level of 0.05. This work demonstrates the potential of XRF as a reliable and low-cost as well as an alternative technique to ICP-OES methods for determining Zn content in rice as it allows the analysis of a greater number of samples in a short period at a considerably low price. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The Hetian nephrite belt in Xinjiang is the largest nephrite ore belt in the world, with a length of about 1300km. In addition to white, gray, black and brown nephrite, the Qiemo—Ruoqiang zone, Xinjiang also produces a yellow-green nephrite. There are few studies on the color origin and characterization of this kind of Hetian nephrite, which affects the understanding of the color and genesis of this kind of Hetian nephrite. OBJECTIVES To understand the color genesis, genetic types and formation age of the yellow-green nephrite in Qiemo—Ruoqiang deposit. METHODS Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA), backscattered electron (BSE) image, X-ray fluorescencespectrometry (XRF), and high resolution inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (HR-ICP-MS) were used to investigate mineral and chemical composition. The FeO content was determined by titration method to explore its color origin and genetic type, and the zircon U-Pb isotope dating by sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP) was used to constrain its mineralization age. RESULTS Yellow-green nephrite in Qiemo—Ruoqiang was predominately composed of apatite, calcite, dolomite, diopside, epidote, sphene and zircon. The yellow-green nephrite whole rock had low total REE (∑REE=2.61-19.1μg/g) with obvious Eu negative anomaly (δEu < 0.05), LREE right dipping, and HREE flat pattern. According to the distribution pattern of rare earth and the content of Cr and Ni, it was inferred that it was a magnesia skarn type Hetian nephrite. Compared with other nephrite in the world, the average value of Fe3+/Fe2+ of the yellow-green nephrite in Qiemo—Ruoqiang (average=0.16) overlapped with nephrite in other regions. The ratio is slightly higher (0.07-0.26), while the content of Fe3+ and Fe2+ was not significantly different between the yellow-green nephrite and other color nephrite. The SHRIMP U-Pb dating of zircon in the yellow-green nephrite yielded ages of 461.7±6.1Ma (MSWD=1.6) and 498.1±4.6Ma (MSWD=1.16). CONCLUSIONS The color genesis of the yellow-green nephrite in Qiemo is probably related to the ratio of Fe3+/Fe2+, but not to the content of Fe3+ and Fe2+. The SHRIMP U-Pb dating results of zircon in yellow-green nephrite represent the formation age of the yellow-green nephrite. These new data provide geochronological constraints for the magmatism of Hetian nephrite belt and the tectonic evolution of the West Kunlun orogenic belt.

Novel X-ray fluorescence technique is applied for determination of ferrous iron (FeO) content for reference material characterization in addition (or as alternative) to volumetric method. Approach is based on the dependence of FeKβ 5 line relative intensity on the iron valence state. A set of 99 reference materials was studied to choose optimal calibration set containing rocks of different composition: ultrabasic, basic, intermediate, and acid igneous rocks, silicate sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. The ratio of FeKβ 5 and FeKβ 1,3 lines intensities was chosen as analytical parameter. A set of 40 GeoPT samples was analyzed, and it was shown that the uncertainty of proposed X-ray fluorescence technique is comparable to one of certified volumetric (potassium dichromate titration) technique for the samples with Fe 2 O 3 tot content more than 1 wt%. The presence of Sr and Co in usual for rocks content (up to ∼0.23 wt% and ∼200 μg/g respectively) does not affect to the measurement uncertainty. Analytical potential, limitations and features of proposed technique are discussed. [Display omitted] • Novel XRF approach is proposed for reference materials characterization. • FeO content was determined in 40 GeoPT samples. • The uncertainty was compared with certified volumetric technique. • The use of XRF method increase the reliably of analytical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Selenium (Se) is one of the essential trace elements for humans, and an important way for humans to obtain and supplement selenium is by eating natural selenium-enriched agricultural products. The geochemical characteristics of selenium in the survey area are an important basis for the effective utilization of selenium-enriched land resources and the development of selenium-enriched agricultural and sideline products. OBJECTIVES To investigate the geochemical characteristics of selenium content, distribution and influence factors in the study area. METHODS Soil and crop samples were collected from a central village of Zhaojue County, Sichuan Province. AFS, XRF and ICP-MS were used to determine the contents of elements including Se, Al2O3, TFe2O3, SiO2, OrgC, and pH values. Geochemical characteristics of selenium content, distribution and influencing factors in the study area were investigated using statistical and correlation analysis. RESULTS (1) The soil selenium content in the study area ranged from 0.04 to 1.50mg/kg, with an average value of 0.33mg/kg. The delineated selenium-enriched soil area was 7.23km2, accounting for 30.31% of the total soil area. The selenium content of the soil developed in basalt was the highest, with an average of 0.4mg/kg, indicating that the geological background in the area was closely related to the soil selenium content. The Se-enriched soil in the area was mainly controlled by the Emeishan basalt Formation, which contained basalt intercalating with picrite and tuffaceous sand and mudstone. (2) The enrichment capacity of selenium varied in different land utilization and soil types. The absorption capacity of selenium in soil decreased due to human agricultural activities. Clayey particles or iron oxides in the yellow-brown loam layer were easy to combine and enrich selenium. The selenium content in acidic soil was inversely correlated to pH value. There was a significant positive correlation between soil organic matter and selenium content. Soil texture had a certain effect on selenium content. (3) Corn and potatoes from selenium-enriched soils had very low selenium content. CONCLUSIONS During the exploitation and utilization of selenium-enriched soil, organic fertilizer should be added in time and soil pH should be adjusted in agricultural areas such as dry land and paddy field, and other agricultural products should be developed by using selenium-enriched resources.

BACKGROUND Blue amber is mainly produced in the Dominican Republic, Mexico and Myanmar. Generally speaking, the formation mechanism, composition and spectral characteristics of blue amber are closely related to its specific geographical environment. Therefore, the study on the origin of blue amber has become a hot topic in the field of gemology, archaeology and biological mineralogy, and the origin of geographical districts of blue amber has become a hot research topic. Previous studies mainly used infrared spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and isotope tracing to carry out a relatively systematic study on the origin of blue amber, but were limited to the similarity of blue amber, and the spectral characteristics of blue amber from different origins showing similarities. Due to the low popularity of the application of some detection devices, the application of the detection method based on the above-mentioned corresponding devices is greatly limited. OBJECTIVES To identify photoluminescence (PL), Raman spectroscopy and trace element characteristics of blue amber with different origins. METHODS Photoluminescence and Raman spectroscopy combined with trace element analysis were used to study the spectral and elemental occurrence characteristics of blue amber from Dominican Republic and Mexico. RESULTS The results showed that: (1)At room temperature, using PL spectrum with 405nm as the excitation wavelength, the peaks at 450, 475 and 502nm appeared simultaneously for blue amber from Dominican Republic. In contrast, there was no significant characteristic peak in Mexican blue amber. The differences in PL spectrum of blue amber from the two origins can be used as a direct basis for the traceability and identification of its origin. (2)Using the Raman spectrum with 785nm as the excitation wavelength, the Raman peaks of blue amber from Dominican Republic at about 154, 468, 901, 1177 and 1312cm-1 were more prominent or sharper than those from Mexico. The ratio of the peak intensity at 1653 and 1446cm-1 (N=I1653/I1446) in the corresponding spectrum of the amber from Dominican Republic was significantly higher than that from Mexico. (3)Trace elements of S, Si, Fe and Cu were present in the blue amber from the two regions, and the content was S>Si>Fe>Cu. The content of Cu in blue amber from Dominican Republic was generally higher than that from Mexico. Therefore, the occurrence and content characteristics of Cu can be used as one of the evidences for the traceability of Dominican blue amber. CONCLUSIONS The research work provides theoretical and technical support for the origin of blue amber with different geographical locations. It can also provide a salutary reference for identification of the geographical location for other gems.

The aim of this study was to determine whether X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) could be used to detect changes in hair zinc concentration in response to a modest daily increase in zinc from the consumption of zinc biofortified wheat flour. This study was conducted as part of an effectiveness trial (BiZiFED2) exploring the potential for zinc biofortified wheat to alleviate zinc deficiency in adolescent girls aged 10–16 years in Pakistan (trial registration ID ISRCTN17107812). A randomized controlled design was used. Participants received either control flour or zinc biofortified flour for 6 months. Consumption of biofortified flour resulted in an average daily increase in dietary zinc intake of 1.5 mg per day above that of the control flour. At baseline and at the end of the intervention, individual hair samples (control: n = 59, intervention: n = 64) were analyzed for zinc and sulfur content by XRF. Data were analyzed using linear mixed effects models to contrast between trial groups the changes from baseline to end point and also to compare baseline and end point values within each trial group. Increases from baseline to endpoint in both sulfur and zinc were significantly greater in the intervention group compared to control (sulfur counts. Control: baseline = 119.87 ± 20.33 and endpoint = 121.58 ± 23.58/intervention: baseline = 122.67 ± 24.19 and endpoint = 131.60 ± 21.34); (Zinc counts. Control: baseline = 50.88 ± 14.33 and endpoint = 54.82 ± 14.61/intervention: baseline = 49.61 ± 10.77 and endpoint = 58.79 ± 12.20). For these parameters, there were also significant increases from baseline to endpoint in the intervention group but not in control. Furthermore, for Zn:S count ratio there were no differences in terms of the magnitude of the change from baseline to endpoint in the control group, although significant increases from baseline to endpoint were evident in the intervention group (Zn:S count ratio. Control: baseline = 0.42 ± 0.10 and endpoint = 0.45 ± 0.08/intervention: baseline = 0.41 ± 0.08 and endpoint = 0.45 ± 0.08). A modest increase in dietary zinc over 6 months resulted in a detectable increase in both sulfur and zinc counts in individual hairs measured using XRF. This offers a sensitive, non-invasive method to monitor changes within subjects in response to dietary zinc interventions.

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Wood ashes obtained from household heating and cooking are often applied to home gardens and arable fields by farmers. The effect of tree species and their locations on the elemental composition of wood ashes derived from domestic cooking and heating is unknown. The study aimed to discover the fertilizer values of wood ashes obtained from Betula pendula, Carpinus betulus, Fagus sylvatica, Larix decidua, Picea abies, Pinus sylvestris, Quercus robur, and Tilia cordata from two different localities, Hlinsko and Mšec, Czech Republic. The total element content in the ashes of dry wood samples (wood and bark) burnt at 460°C with a wood stove interfaced with a thermometer was determined using portable x‐ray spectrometry. The content (in g kg−1) of P (3.23–20.53), K (26.79–136.22), Ca (94.89–295.56), and S (2.97–11.75) in the ashes varies according to the tree species, locality, parent rock, and anthropogenic activities in the location of trees. Additionally, trace element contents ranged from 0.63–32.07 g Mn kg−1, 0.34–4.6 g Fe kg−1, 32.4–2062 mg Zn kg−1, 47.61–193.09 mg Cu kg−1, 3.99–21.53 mg Mo kg−1, and 1.50–6.62 mg Se kg−1. The pH of the ashes ranged from 8.71 to 11.54, suitable to alleviate soil acidity and a condition satisfying soil additive. A significant positive correlation between the contents of Cu, Sr, and Pb with the ashes of Picea abies, Larix decidua, Pinus sylvestris, and Betula pendula at Hlinsko is indicative of ancient anthropogenic activities input in the soil. The combustion of wood under home heating temperatures resulted in the concentration of most risk metal(loid)s, below permissible limits in agricultural soils. Application of wood ashes on arable fields requires considerable caution due to potentially toxic elements (Zn and Pb). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND At present, the content of Se in soil is mainly determined by atomic fluorescence spectrometry, which has disadvantages such as large usage of acid and relatively complex pretreatment. Determination of high content of Se requires high dilution, which expands the analysis error. OBJECTIVES To establish a method for the determination of Se and other elements in Se-rich soil samples by wavelength dispersive and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WD-ED XRF). METHODS WD-ED XRF was used to determine 17 major and minor elements such as Se in Hubei selenium-rich soil samples with powder pellet. While 10 elements were analyzed by WD-XRF, As, Cu, Rb, Sr, Zr, Ba, Ni were analyzed by ED-XRF, which significantly reduced the measurement time. RESULTS By mixing different certified reference materials in proportion to configure mixed certified reference materials, the problem of insufficient content of the existing Se reference materials in the range of 5-72μg/g was solved. For the determination of high content Se, the relative standard deviation was less than 10%, and the RSD of high content Se sample was less than 0.70%, through the precision and accuracy assessment. CONCLUSIONS The proposed method satisfies the quantitative analysis of soil samples with Se content greater than 3.00μg/g, and provides the quantitative or approximate quantitative analysis results of 16 major and minor elements.

BACKGROUND The northern Anhui region is located north of the Huaihe River in Anhui. It was an important channel for cultural exchanges between the north and the south during the pre-Qin Period. It was also a necessary area for transporting copper resource on the Yangtze River to the Central Plains. Bronzes in this area are very important for exploring the relationship between copper mines in the Middle-Lower Yangtze River and the bronze culture of the Central Plains. OBJECTIVES In order to understand the diachronic changes of mineral resources in different periods in northern Anhui and the interaction with the surrounding bronze culture. METHODS Laser ablation multiple-collector plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS) and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) were used to analyze the composition and the lead isotope ratios of 4 bronzes unearthed in northern Anhui and 4 bronzes unearthed from the Warring States Chu Tomb in Jijiayuan, Hubei Province. RESULTS Results showed that among the 4 bronzes in northern Anhui, there were 3 lead-tin bronzes and 1 tin bronze. The copper content ranged from 60.69% to 76.65%. The tin content was generally higher, 9.66% to 33.24%, and the lead content was 0.43% to 18.07%. The composition had a large variation. The lead isotope analysis results showed that the lead isotope ratios of the samples were within the range of common lead. Two tin bronzes (WB-3, JJY-1) indicated the source of copper materials, and the rest of the samples reflected the source information of lead materials. Comparing the ores in different region, it was found that the data of the bronzes in the northern Anhui during the Western Zhou Period and the Tonglushan mining area in Hubei were relatively close. During the Warring States Period, the bronzes in the northern Anhui began to use minerals from the southern Anhui mining area. Therefore, from the Western Zhou Period to the Warring States Period, the metal resources used in the northern Anhui area began to gradually change from the Tonglushan area in Hubei to the area along the Yangtze River in southern Anhui. CONCLUSIONS This research provides a new scientific basis for the source of minerals used in bronzes in the Zhou Dynasty in the region, and the exchange of bronze culture between northern Anhui and the surrounding areas.

BACKGROUND The Panxi super large-scale Taihe vanadium-titanium magnetite deposit is located in the mafic-ultramafic layered intrusions. Research on the characteristics of infrared spectroscopy of the typical minerals of this deposit is relatively lacking, restricting exploration efficiency. The Panxi area would benefit from the use of infrared spectroscopy technology, which in recent years has attracted much attention because of its green, fast, non-destructive and accurate detection of minerals, and improvement of exploration efficiency. OBJECTIVES To analyze the characteristics of different minerals and to efficiently identify ore-bearing intrusions and mineralized regions in the Taihe vanadium titano-magnetite deposit in the Panxi area, Sichuan Province. METHODS Minerals were identified using Handheld FTIR through thermal infrared (TIR). The contents of Fe, Ti, and V were analyzed by Vanta VMW portable XRF. The magnetic susceptibility was analyzed by KM-7 portable magnetic susceptibility tester. Based on the core catalog, the relationship between borehole lithology, mineral assemblage, element content, and magnetic susceptibility value was studied. RESULTS TIR can be used to achieve rapid and non-destructive extraction of the characteristic absorption peaks of pyroxene, identify the distribution of magnetite-bearing pyroxenite, and quickly define ore-bearing rock masses. The contents of Fe, Ti, and V in the Taihe deposit can be linearly fitted by magnetic susceptibility values. Different kinds of rocks and ores have different contents of Fe, Ti, V and magnetic susceptibility value. CONCLUSIONS TIR technology is useful for prospecting magnetite-bearing rocks or deposits in unknown areas. The higher contents of Fe, Ti, and V and magnetic susceptibility values can be used as indicative information for judging the mineralization of geological bodies.

Determination of the content of chemical elements occurring in waste in large, small and trace amounts was performed using two instrumental analysis techniques: ICP-OES—Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry and WDXRF—Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry. Since such analyses are expensive and time-consuming, the objective of the work presented in this paper was the development of a quick and inexpensive method for preliminary, scanning-based identification of the chemical composition of tested samples (solid, bulk or powder) using standardless, semi-quantitative analysis. An optimized method of preparing samples for X-ray measurements by pressing into a durable tablet, universal for all materials tested, was developed. Moreover, limits of quantification were determined, and the uncertainty of the results obtained was estimated by comparing them with the results acquired with the use of the accredited calibration method, employing standards and certified reference materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Black quartzite jade is a type of commonly and commercially available jade. Many areas produce this gem. OBJECTIVES To analyze the gemological characteristics and mineral composition of the jade samples and to discuss their genesis. METHODS Conventional gemological tests, infrared spectrum tests, polarizing microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction analysis, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry were used. RESULTS Black quartzite jade from the Linwu County, Hunan Province, showed a medium-fine grain texture. The polarizing microscopy results revealed many crytalloblastic or palimpsest textures. The content of the main mineral quartz was 44.7%, the content of secondary minerals (mica and feldspar) was 31.0%, and the content of clay minerals was 12.7%. Minor organic carbon, iron minerals, andalusite, almandine, and pyrite were also observed. CONCLUSIONS Based on the main textures, structures, configuration features, and chemical compositions, the studied samples are regarded as typical low-to-moderate temperature hydrothermal regional metamorphic rocks, which are classified as greenschist facies. The source rock was composed of sedimentary rocks abundant with aluminum, quartz, and feldspar. The tectonic environment for its formation belonged to the continental margin. This study provides technical support for the identification of the mineral composition of quartzite jades from the Linwu County, Hunan Province.

BACKGROUND Sufficient mineralogical research on clay-type lithium resources is an important prerequisite for lithium extraction and leaching. Numerous clay-type lithium resources have been discovered in both Yuxi City of Yunnan Province in China and the state of Nevada in the USA; however, existing research on their mineralogical characteristics is relatively insufficient. OBJECTIVES To explore the main chemical composition, phase composition, microscopic morphology, Li occurrence and other characteristics of clay-type lithium resource samples from Yuxi and Nevada and to provide theoretical support for the extraction and leaching of clay-type lithium resources in these two areas. METHODS X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, powder crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyze the mineral and chemical differences in the clay-type lithium resources between the two samples (YM-1 and YM-2) collected from Yuxi City, Yunnan Province, and the two samples (Ame-1 and Ame-2) from Nevada, USA. RESULTS The lithium contents of YM-1 and YM-2 and Ame-1 and Ame-2 were higher than 1000μg/g, which exhibited a certain development and utilization value. However, the clay-type lithium resource samples from the two investigated regions showed large differences in chemical composition, mineral composition, microscopic morphology, and lithium occurrences. (1) YM-1 and YM-2 had similar SiO2 and Al2O3 content, with the total amount of silicon and aluminum oxides exceeding 80%, whereas Ame-1 contained 60.39% SiO2 and Ame-2 comprised 42.30% CaO. (2) YM-1 and YM-2 were composed of kaolinite and montmorillonite, whereas Ame-1 and Ame-2 were composed of quartz, nontronite, stevensite, or calcite. (3) YM-1 and YM-2 were stacked in a layered structure with flat surfaces and had round edges and a relatively uniform size, whereas Ame-1 and Ame-2 were mainly represented by massive mineral aggregates of different sizes. (4) Montmorillonite in YM-1 and YM-2 served as the lithium source, whereas lithium in Ame-1 and Ame-2 originated from smectite minerals or illite. CONCLUSIONS This study elucidated the mineralogical characteristics of clay-type lithium resources in Yuxi (Yunnan, China) and Nevada (USA). It provides a scientific basis for future development and utilization of the clay-type lithium resources in these two regions.

BACKGROUND Anning is an important industrial and mining city in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River Economic Belt. It is a fulcrum for economic development and ecological civilization construction in the Central Yunnan New Area. The investigation of geochemical water system sediments and hydrogeology in the Anning area was last performed in the 1970s and the 1980s. In recent years, the impact of human production and life on the ecological environment remains unclear. OBJECTIVES Surface sediment samples from the Anning area were investigated to reveal their pollution status, spatial distribution characteristics, and potential ecological risks of river sediments. METHODS X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma optical mass spectrometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and other methods were used to systematically analyze the contents and distribution characteristics of major elements, trace elements, and 16 priority-controlled PAHs. Geoaccumulation index, Hankanson ecological risk index, and sediment quality criteria were used to assess the ecological risk of eight typical heavy metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Zn, Pb, and Hg) and PAHs. RESULTS Results showed that the heavy metal content in the river sediments from the Anning area was higher than the background values of the national and southern rivers. The spatial distributions of the heavy metals were highly variable and uneven. Additionally, Cd, Hg, and Ad showed medium to severe potential ecological risks. The average content of ∑PAHs was 20856ng/g, and the detection rate of the 16 monomers was ~100%. The overall ecological risk of PAHs was low, and their main sources were petrochemical industry and combustion of petroleum fuels. The major risks of pollutants in the river sediments of the Anning area were mainly concentrated in the vicinity of steel plants and chemical factories in the Tanglangchuan River. CONCLUSIONS This research provides a scientific basis for local governments to strengthen key industrial point source pollution control, and reduce and control industrial sewage discharge.

BACKGROUND The high content of potassium, sodium, zinc, and chlorine in dust ash significantly affects the stable operation of converter. To recycle the dust ash, it is necessary to accurately determine the contents of the components. Dust ash contains a broad range of potassium, sodium, zinc, and chlorine; therefore, the traditional X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) exceeds the range of the work curve. OBJECTIVES To develop a method for the determination of 14 components in the dust ash with a broad concentration range of potassium, sodium, zinc, and chlorine. METHODS Standard reagents of potassium chloride, sodium chloride, and zinc oxide were added to commercially available iron ore standards in a quantitative manner to provide a new series of calibration samples with wide ranges of potassium, sodium, zinc, and chlorine contents. The 14 components in the dust ash were determined by XRF spectrometry with a powder-pelleting-lined boric acid preparation. RESULTS The measurement ranges of potassium, sodium, zinc, and chlorine were 1.36%-12.00%, 0.43%-6.85%, 0.24%-35.00%, and 0.25%-10.00%, respectively. The results of the 14 components in the dust ash were consistent with those of the traditional method, yielding a relative standard deviation of < 5.2% (n=7). CONCLUSIONS XRF spectrometry with the powder-pelleting-lined boric acid preparation showed good accuracy and precision during the determination of 14 components in the dust ash.

Arsenic, classified as a priority pollutant and human carcinogen by the IARC, is subject to stringent regulatory limits in food and water. Among various arsenic species found in water samples, arsenite (As(III)) is identified as the most toxic form. Given the limitations of conventional spectroscopic techniques in speciation analysis, there is a crucial need for innovative and sustainable methodologies that enable arsenic speciation. Simplifying these methodologies is essential for widespread applicability and effective environmental monitoring. This study proposes a simple and cost-effective analytical methodology for speciating inorganic arsenic in water samples. The method involves extracting As(III) into a polymer inclusion membrane (PIM) containing the extractant Cyanex 301 (bis(2,4,4-trimethylpentyl) dithiophosphinic acid), followed by analysis using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry. The concentration of arsenate was measured after a reduction step using a thiosulfate/iodide mixture. This simple methodology allows a limit of quantification for trivalent arsenic (2 μg L−1), which is well below the World Health Organization's recommended maximum permissible level of As in drinking water (10 μg L−1). The method that is developed allows the determination of As at trace levels in waters with naturally occurring arsenic. This study represents a significant advance in the field, providing a novel and efficient methodology for arsenic speciation analysis in water samples. By combining the advantages of polymer inclusion membrane (PIM) extraction with energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry, this study offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to address the critical issue of arsenic contamination in water sources, thereby contributing to enhanced environmental monitoring and public health protection. [Display omitted] • A PIM composed of 50 % CTA and 50 % Cyanex 301 selectively extracts As(III). • As(III) is extracted into a PIM and analyzed via EDXRF spectrometry. • As(V) is reduced to As(III) using a Na₂SO₃ + KI solution prior to extraction. • The LOD of the combined PIM extraction and EDXRF analysis is 0.6 μg L⁻1. • Successful As speciation in As-contaminated waters is achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-destructive characterization of decorated porcelain artifacts requires the joint use of surface-analytical methods for the decorative surface pattern and methods of high penetration depth for bulk-representative chemical composition. In this research, we used position-sensitive X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry (XRF) and Prompt-gamma activation analysis (PGAA) for these purposes, assisted by 3D structured-light optical scanning and dual-energy X-ray radiography. The proper combination of the near-surface and bulk element composition data can shed light on raw material use and manufacturing technology of ceramics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied a possibility of determining fluorine in rocks by the X-ray fluorescence spectrometry using pressed pellets as emitters. The most important factors affecting the results of fluorine determination are considered, namely, the covering effect , systematic and random errors due to measuring the intensity of the fluorine line and sample preparation, the dependence of the FKα line intensity on the matrix composition of the sample and the compound containing this element. The results were evaluated in terms of permissible errors. The use of a single calibration equation for rocks with various fluorine-containing minerals is inapplicable to pressed pellets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The Xuebaoding deposit, located in the Songpan-Ganzi orogenic belt, Sichuan Province, is famous for coarse-grained W-Sn-Be-F-P-bearing minerals. Many studies have been carried out on this deposit, but there is a lack of research on major and trace elements of coarse-grained minerals. OBJECTIVES To obtain major and trace element composition of minerals and provide constraints on ore genesis of the Xuebaoding deposit. METHODS In this study, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) and electron probe microanalysis (EMPA) were used to analyze the major elements of minerals in the deposit, and the trace elements were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). RESULTS The results showed that beryl, scheelite, cassiterite, muscovite, fluorite, apatite and tourmaline in the Xuebaoding deposit were rich in major ore-forming elements (W, Sn, Be, Na, K, Ca) and alkali metal elements such as Li, Rb, Cs, and volatiles such as F, B, and P. Beryl in the Xuebaoding deposit was rich in Li (3484-4243μg/g), Rb (39.3-71.1μg/g) and Cs (2955-3526μg/g). The content of Li, Rb and Cs in muscovite was as high as 4243μg/g, 72.3μg/g and 3526μg/g, respectively. The content of F in apatite and B in tourmaline were 4.48%-5.21% and 30990-32880μg/g, respectively. The granites in the Xuebaoding deposit were relatively rich in W, Sn, Be, Li, Rb, Cs, F, B, P, with relatively low CaO content (0. 46%-0. 82%). Li, Rb, Cs, F, B, P were conducive to the enrichment of ore-forming elements in fluids. Marble in the mining area was calcite marble, which provided a large amount of Ca for mineralization and was conducive to the large-scale precipitation of coarse-grained minerals. CONCLUSIONS W, Sn, Be, Li, Rb, Cs, F, B and P in coarse-grained minerals are mainly derived from magmatic fluids, where the marble strata provide a large amount of Ca for coarse-grained minerals.

BACKGROUND China is the largest importer of copper concentrate in the world. Studying the mineralogical characteristics of copper concentrates imported from different origins can be used to support the origin analysis and solid waste identification of copper concentrates. OBJECTIVES To investigate the elemental composition and mineral assemblage characteristics of imported copper concentrates from different mining areas, and to discuss the mineralogical differences of copper concentrates of different genetic types. METHODS The copper concentrates imported from different mining areas were comprehensively analyzed by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and polarized microscopy (PM). RESULTS X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy analysis showed that the main elements of the copper concentrates were Cu, Fe, S, O with minor Zn, Si, Al, Mg, Ca, Pb. X-ray powder diffraction phase analysis showed that the main phase of the copper concentrate sample was chalcopyrite, followed by pyrite and sphalerite. Polarization microscope showed that the content of chalcopyrite in copper concentrates was between 88% and 98%, and it was found that chalcopyrite was associated with sphalerite, pyrite and pyrrhotite, and that sphalerite was associated with bornite, arsenotetrahedrite. Chalcopyrite, arsenotetrahedrite and bornite form intergrowths. Combining the analysis of different genetic types of copper concentrates, samples of porphyry, skarn and VMS deposits were composed of chalcopyrite, pyrite and sphalerite with respective special minerals of biotite, weddellite and lead anglesite. The main minerals of the IOCG deposit samples were chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite and talc. CONCLUSIONS Through the combination of XRF, XRD and PM, the elemental content and phase composition of copper concentrate samples were characterized. The mineralogical characteristics of copper concentrate samples from different origins have been more comprehensively analyzed, which is of great significance for risk identification and control of imported copper concentrates.

This paper represents the first study on the Xinzhai Culture pottery from Huadizui site, China using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), and petrographic. Huadizui pottery is considered to be produced locally, and the raw materials for making pottery come from the Xiaoqinling‐Xiong'er Mountain and Songshan Mountain chain. There are at least two or three clay sources or workshops in the Huadizui site, which is evidenced by petrographic characteristics and the chemical composition of samples. All of the investigated samples were mainly related to quartz and feldspar pellets. The corresponding relationship between the characteristics of the matrix and pottery categories reflects potters pursuing the function of vessels at that time. The range of firing temperature of almost all vessels is between 750 and 950°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The main types of copper deposits are porphyry and skarn types. Dacite porphyry is a rock type commonly developed in the porphyry Cu-Mo-Au system. The rock can be used as a marker clue for ore prospecting and ore-forming rock when there is well-developed hydrothermal alteration. The Dabaoshan deposit is currently the largest copper polymetallic deposit in the South China Block. Previous studies have shown that the dacite porphyry of the mining area is not only the ore-forming parent rock, but also a favorable ore-bearing wall rock. However, there are some debates about the relationship between dacite porphyry and mineralization in this mining area. With the breakthrough of prospecting for medium and large dacite porphyry ore bodies in recent years, the relationship between dacite porphyry and mineralization has once again become a concern. OBJECTIVES To understand the relationship between dacite porphyry alteration and mineralization of the Dabaoshan deposit. METHODS Based on field work and indoor analysis, X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) were used to determine copper, tungsten, silicon, aluminum and calcium in Dabaoshan dacite porphyry samples. The isotope composition, metal element contents and alteration characteristics of the dacite porphyry in the mining area were used to discuss the relationship between alteration and prospecting direction. RESULTS The copper content ranged from 107 to 6909μg/g, which was consistent with the copper ore grade of 0.3%-0.5% in the mining area. The LOI and other geochemical indicators that can represent the degree of alteration were positively correlated with copper. Hydrothermal alteration was widely developed in dacite porphyry, including potassium, prophyliticition and quartz-sericitization from early to late stage. Among different stages of alterations, the copper content of quartz-sericitization was 2 to 5 times higher than other alteration types, indicating that quartz-sericitization was closely related to copper mineralization and was an important prospecting marker clue. CONCLUSIONS The deep alteration intensity of the dacite porphyry (below the 270m elevation) has not been weakened, suggesting a great prospecting potential. In addition, the contact zone between dacite porphyry and the Jurassic strata, and the xenoliths in the dacite porphyry are also important prospecting directions, which may host skarn-type copper-rich deposits.

OBJECTIVES Due to the advantages of simple sample preparation, non-destructive determination, and rapid detection, the X-ray fluorescence spectrometry technique has become a robust method for determination of manganese in soil or sediment. Manganese in soil and sediment standard material has the maximum content of 2490mg/kg, thus the traditional X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF) can easily suffer from the drawbacks of standard curve measurement range due to the limited manganese content in standard soil or sediment samples. OBJECTIVES To develop a good method for the determination of manganese in polluted soil or sediment. METHODS To address this major concern, manganese solutions were added to the commercially available soil standards in a quantitative manner to give a series of new soil standards with higher manganese content. The content of manganese can be determined by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. RESULTS The establishment of a novel standard curve by taking advantage of these new soil standards could significantly promote the upper limit of manganese measurement from 2490mg/kg to 3780mg/kg. The analytical results of manganese were consistent with the reference value and a recovery of 97.8%-108.3%. The results of high-manganese samples were consistent with the values acquired by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry, with the relative deviation less than 5.7% and the relative standard deviation lower than 0.4% (n=7). Conclusion Results show good accuracy and precision in the determination of high-manganese soils and sediments.

The determination of mineral concentrations in rice grain samples is crucial for analyzing their nutritional content. Most mineral content analysis techniques depend on inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry and are often complicated, expensive, time-consuming, and laborious. Recently, the handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer has been randomly used in earth sciences; however, it is hardly practiced in quantifying mineral content in rice samples. In this research, the reliability of XRF results was compared with that of the ICP-OES to determine zinc (Zn) concentration in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Approximately 200 dehusked rice samples and four known high-Zn samples were analyzed using both XRF and ICP-OES techniques. The concentrations of Zn were recorded using the XRF technique and then correlated with the ICP-OES results. The results indicated a high positive relationship between two methods, with R2 = 0.83, p = 0.000, and the Pearson correlation value of 0.91 at the level of 0.05. This work demonstrates the potential of XRF as a reliable and low-cost as well as an alternative technique to ICP-OES methods for determining Zn content in rice as it allows the analysis of a greater number of samples in a short period at a considerably low price.

Over 1000 people make a living by processing electronic and electrical waste (E-waste) and scrap metals for the recovery of valuable metals and integrated circuits at Dagomba Line, Kumasi, Ghana. The processing includes activities such as dismantling, open burning and open dumping of E-waste which can potentially release toxic metals into the environment and thus impact the health of recyclers and nearby residents. This study investigated the distribution of toxic metals (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Sb and Zn) in surface soils at the E-waste recycling sites and determined the associated human health risk via ingestion incorporating bioaccessibility measurements. Metal concentrations in the activity sites were highly elevated, significantly higher than those in the surrounding area and exceeded international soil quality guidelines such as the Canadian soil quality guidelines for residential land use and the Dutch Intervention Value. Bioaccessibility was high for Pb (70.8%), Cd (64.1%), Cu (62.3%) and Ni (53.6%) which could be credited to the existence of oxidized species as a result of the E-waste burning. Non-carcinogenic effects were unacceptably high (hazard indices > 1) at 14 out of 31 sites, and the cancer risk for arsenic for adult workers was greater than 1 × 10−5 at five of the sampling sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]