Applied Rigaku Technologies, Inc. announced today the publication of a new method for the analysis of lead-zinc ore using the empirical calibration technique.
The method is detailed in EDXRF application note #1495 and demonstrates the use of the Rigaku NEX CG benchtop EDXRF analyzer in the trace elemental analysis of ores. Information regarding sample preparation, calibration and repeatability is presented in the application note.
From screening at the mine site, throughout the processing areas to final evaluation, elemental analysis is a critical part of the examination of ores, helping ensure proper extraction and process control. Trace elemental analysis, especially of precious metals, also helps optimize the value of the processing. In lead-zinc ores, the most profitable elements are lead, zinc and, in some ores, silver. Along the entire processing line, a fast and simple technique is required to monitor these and other elements.
For the application described in the report, 12 assayed ore samples were used as standards for empirical calibration and a single calibration method was created. Two standards were selected from the calibration and were analyzed against the calibration curves to demonstrate recovery and repeatability.
Spectral analyses of each of the samples show clear isolation of the respective peaks. The results indicate that, given homogeneous samples and proper calibration, the Rigaku NEX CG analyzer is an ideal EDXRF tool for screening and characterization of lead/zinc ore at the mine site or processing facilities for optimum product QA/QC.
A copy of this report may be requested at:
http://www.rigakuedxrf.com/edxrf/app-notes.html?id=1495_AppNote
About Rigaku
Since its inception in Japan in 1951, Rigaku has been at the forefront of analytical and industrial instrumentation technology. Rigaku and its subsidiaries form a global group focused on life sciences and general purpose analytical instrumentation. With hundreds of major innovations to its credit, Rigaku and its subsidiary companies are world leaders in the fields of small molecule and protein crystallography, X-ray spectrometry and diffraction, X-ray optics, as well as semiconductor metrology. Rigaku employs over 1,100 people globally and its products are in use in more than 70 countries – supporting research, development, production control and quality assurance activities. Throughout the world, Rigaku continuously promotes partnerships, dialog, and innovation within the global scientific and industrial community.