Titanium dioxide determination in sunscreen by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence methodology

Nowadays there are many sun-protection cosmetics incorporating chemical and/or physical UV filters as active ingredients and there are no official methods to determine these kinds of compounds in sunscreen cosmetics. The objective of this work is to estimate TiO₂ concentration, without sample preparation, employing a portable energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF), aiming to estimate the sun protection factor (SPF) due to the physical barrier in sunscreen composition, and also identify the metals present in the samples. A portable EDXRF system was used for the analysis of fifteen commercial samples. It was also prepared three formulations estimated in FPS-30 using TiO₂ at 5%. Quantification was performed using calibration curves with standards from 1 to 30%. The physical barrier contribution in the SPF, associated to Ti concentration, was determined for all samples. The presence of some elements, like K, Zn, Br and Sr was detected in the sunscreen, identifying chemical elements that were not cited in the formulations. Three commercial samples were analyzed for total SPF determination and the result shows that the measured value is 10% lower than the nominal one.     

Evaluation of analytical instrumentation. Part XX Instrumentation for energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

The reports of this series tabulate a number of features of analytical instruments that should be considered when making comparison between various systems. Scoring these features in a rational manner allows a scientific comparison to be made between instruments as an aid to selection. This is the XXth report of the series and deals with instrumentation for energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry.     

能量色散X射线荧光光谱背景扣除方法的探讨

能量色散X射线荧光分析使得特征X射线的全能峰叠加在背景之上,针对能量色散X射线荧光谱线背景扣除算法的研究,简述了剥峰法和小波变换法扣除背景的原理,并将这两种方法用于对实际谱线的处理,取得了良好的效果.同时对两种方法的算法和处理效果进行了对比研究,表明剥峰法相对简单,而小波变换法需要考虑小波基和分解层次等的影响,但是对整个谱线的综合处理效果相对要好一些.     

Application of energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry as multielemental analysis to determine the elemental composition of crumb rubber samples

The elemental content of different rubber samples was analyzed using different analytical methods (inductively coupled atomic emission spectroscopy and non-polarized energy dispersive X-ray fluorescent spectroscopy). A new application of energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry as an analytical method for the determination of elemental content of rubber samples was investigated. Control analyses were also carried out to compare the results by ICP-AES. In one hand four samples contained same quality of elements (Mg, Si, P, S, Ca, Fe, Zn), while another four samples were without phosphorous. On the other hand there were significant differences in the ratio of C/H in the case of each sample. Based on the results, it was concluded that the X-ray spectrometry as an analytical method is well-applicable to determine the elemental composition of rubber samples, but the calibration is a key part of the analysis. A good correlation was observed between the different methods, but the correlation was the function of characteristic of matrices. Significant matrix effect from the presence of phosphor was observed in the case of some samples, while the change of C/H ratio could not result notable matrix effect.     

Direct rapid analysis of trace bioavailable soil macronutrients by chemometrics-assisted energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and scattering spectrometry

Precision agriculture depends on the knowledge and management of soil quality (SQ), which calls for affordable, simple and rapid but accurate analysis of bioavailable soil nutrients. Conventional SQ analysis methods are tedious and expensive. We demonstrate the utility of a new chemometrics-assisted energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and scattering (EDXRFS) spectroscopy method we have developed for direct rapid analysis of trace ‘bioavailable’ macronutrients (i.e. C, N, Na, Mg, P) in soils. The method exploits, in addition to X-ray fluorescence, the scatter peaks detected from soil pellets to develop a model for SQ analysis. Spectra were acquired from soil samples held in a Teflon holder analyzed using ¹⁰⁹Cd isotope source EDXRF spectrometer for 200 s. Chemometric techniques namely principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares (PLS) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) were utilized for pattern recognition based on fluorescence and Compton scatter peaks regions, and to develop multivariate quantitative calibration models based on Compton scatter peak respectively. SQ analyses were realized with high CMD (R² > 0.9) and low SEP (0.01% for N and Na, 0.05% for C, 0.08% for Mg and 1.98 μg g⁻¹ for P). Comparison of predicted macronutrients with reference standards using a one-way ANOVA test showed no statistical difference at 95% confidence level. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that an XRF method has demonstrated utility in trace analysis of macronutrients in soil or related matrices.     

Multilayer characterization by energy dispersive X-ray reflectivity technique

An experimental setup was developed to verify the feasibility of silicon drift detector to be used for the multilayer characterization by means of multilayer energy dispersive X-ray reflectivity. Such a detector allows high count rates up to 3 × 10⁵ cps and can be used in principle for the direct beam intensity measurement, which is to be done for the X-ray multilayer reflectivity patterns obtaining. A series of measurements were performed for Mo/B₄C multilayer sample. A quality of the experimentally obtained data turns out to be enough to perform a sample structure exploration using a numerical procedure of experimental data fitting. Due to low cost and short time, required for the measurements, an experimental technique proposed has a good perspective to be used for some practical applications in industry.     

Characterization of an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence imaging system based on a Micropattern Gaseous Detector

An energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) imaging system based on a Micropattern Gas Detector has already shown good results for different applications. An X-ray tube, a pinhole camera and a Micro-Hole and Strip Plate (MHSP) based detector are the main components of the experimental system. The detector uses an MHSP in a Xe atmosphere at 1 bar, and acting as a photon counting device, i.e., it is capable to record each single event retaining the energy and the interaction position (2D-sensitive detector) information of the incident photon, demonstrating to be a promising device for EDXRF imaging applications. This work presents studies of energy resolution, energy linearity and spatial resolution/elemental mapping as a function of image magnification of the system.     

Direct chlorine determination in crude oils by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry: An improved method based on a proper strategy for sample homogenization and calibration with inorganic standards

Official guidelines to perform chlorine determination in crude oil are (i) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D6470, which is based on the extraction of water from the oil and subsequent determination of the chloride by potentiometry, (ii) ASTM D3230, that measures the conductivity of a solution of crude oil in a mixture of organic solvents and (iii) US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 9075 that uses energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to quantify chlorine and it is applicable for the range from 200 μg g^− 1 to percent levels of the analyte. The goal of this work is to propose method to quantify lower amounts of chlorine in crude oil using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry using a simple calibration strategy. Sample homogenization procedure was carefully studied in order to enable accurate results. The calibration curve was made with standards prepared by diluting aqueous NaCl standard in glycerin. The method presented a linear response that covers the range from 8 to at least 100 μg g^− 1 of chlorine. Chlorine in crude oil samples from Campos Basin - Brazil were quantified by the proposed method and by potentiometry after extraction of chlorine from the oil. Results achieved using both methods were statistically the same at 95% confidence level.     

Determination of trace elements in Syrian medicinal plants and their infusions by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and total-reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) techniques suited well for a multi-element determination of K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Rb, and Sr in some Syrian medicinal plant species. The accuracy and the precision of both techniques were verified by analyzing the Standard Reference Materials (SRM) peach-1547 and apple leaves-1515. A good agreement between the measured concentrations of the previously mentioned elements and the certified values were obtained with errors less than 10.7% for TXRF and 15.8% for XRF. The determination of Br was acceptable only by XRF with an error less than 24%. Furthermore, the XRF method showed a very good applicability for the determination of K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, and Br in infusions of different Syrian medicinal plant species, namely anise (Anisum vulgare), licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and white wormwood (Artemisia herba-alba).     

Determination of wear metals in engine oil by mild acid digestion and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry using solid phase extraction disks

A simple, particle size-independent spectrometric method has been developed for the multi-element determination of wear metals in used engine oil. A small aliquot (0.5 ml) of an acid-digested oil sample is spotted onto a C-18 solid phase extraction disk to form a uniform thin film. The dried disk is then analyzed directly by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. This technique provides a homogeneous and reproducible sample surface to the instrument, thus overcoming the typical problems associated with uneven particle size distribution and sedimentation. As a result, the method provides higher precision and accuracy than conventional methods. Furthermore, the disk sample may be stored and re-analyzed or extracted at a later date. The signals arising from the spotted disks, and the calibration curves constructed from them, are stable for at least 2 months. The limits of detection for Fe, Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cr are 5, 1, 4, 2, and 4 μg g⁻¹, respectively. Recoveries of these elements from spiked oil samples range from 92 to 110%. The analysis of two standard reference materials and a used oil sample produced results comparable to those found by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry.     

Micro energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis of polychrome lead-glazed Portuguese faiences

Several glazed ceramic pieces, originally produced in Coimbra (Portugal), were submitted to elemental analysis, having as premise the pigment manufacture production recognition. Although having been produced in Coimbra, their location changed as time passed due to historical reasons. A recent exhibition in Coimbra brought together a great number of these pieces and in situ micro Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (µ-EDXRF) analyses were performed in order to achieve some chemical and physical data on the manufacture of faiences in Coimbra.     

The infrared microspectroscopic and energy dispersive X-ray analysis of paints removed from a painted, medieval sculpture of Saint Wolfgang

A spectroscopic study of paints removed from a 15th century sculpture depicting Saint Wolfgang, which is housed in the Ball State Museum of Art, was performed. Infrared spectra on the minute paint samples were obtained using a microscope accessory in the transmission mode, and the spectra were compared to reference spectra of known art pigments and materials. In addition, energy dispersive X-ray spectra were obtained using a scanning electron microscope source. Although many of the pigments found are relatively modern pigments, the first application of paint is composed of materials consistent with the sculpture's medieval date. Pigments identified include brass gilding, calcium carbonate, China clay, lac dye, orpiment, Prussian blue, satin ochre, ultramarine blue and red, and zinc chromate. A zinc tungate finish was also identified.     

预富集单波长激发能量色散X射线荧光光谱法现场测定地表水中10种重金属

为实现现场快速定量分析地表水中的多种重金属元素,建立了一种树脂预富集-单波长激发能量色散X射线荧光光谱法现场准确快速测定地表水中Cr(Ⅵ)、Mn、Fe、Co、Ni、Cu、Zn、As、Cd、Pb 10种元素的分析方法。对该方法其中的树脂预富集条件进行了优化,结果表明最佳预富集条件为：树脂粒度38μm-75μm;水样体积30mL;水样流速6mL/min;预富集完成后即刻测量;样品pH值为5。在方法学方面考察了该方法的检出限、精密度、正确度,其中Cr(Ⅵ)、Cu、Zn、As、Cd、Pb 元素的检出限低于地表水环境质量标准GB 3838-2002的限值要求;精密度中相对标准偏差范围为2.13%~10.4%;加标回收率为90.0%~114%之间。采用该方法测定实际地表水样品,并与ICP-MS法进行比对,其测定结果基本一致。研究表明该方法检出限可以满足地表水中Cr(Ⅵ)、Mn、Fe、Co、Ni、Cu、Zn、As、Cd、Pb 的检测要求,精密度和准确性较好。该研究对地表水中无机元素分析方法的拓展进行了有益尝试和积累,并为后续相关标准制订提供有益参考。     

X-射线荧光光谱分析技术的发展

归纳了X-射线荧光光谱分析技术发展的进程。从现代控制技术的改善、仪器检测性能的提高、元素检测范围的扩大等8方面阐述了波长色散X-射线荧光光谱技术的进展,还就能量色散X-射线荧光光谱仪的X射线管和探测器技术的快速发展及近10年来我国在X-射线荧光光谱分析方法方面的论文发表情况进行了总结,对近年来X-射线荧光光谱仪的发展趋势———手持式、偏振、微束分析等进行了评述,并对其技术的发展方向进行了展望。     

Combining synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy with multivariate methods for the analysis of petrol-kerosene mixtures

Synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy (SFS) is a rapid, sensitive and nondestructive method suitable for the analysis of multifluorophoric mixtures. The present study demonstrates the use of SFS and multivariate methods for the analysis of petroleum products which is a complex mixture of multiple fluorophores. Two multivariate techniques principal component regression (PCR) and partial least square regression (PLSR) have been successfully applied for the classification of petrol-kerosene mixtures. Calibration models were constructed using 35 samples and their validation was carried out with varying composition of petrol and kerosene in the calibration range. The results showed that the method could be used for the estimation of kerosene in kerosene-mixed petrol. The model was found to be sensitive, detecting even 1% contamination of kerosene in petrol.     

定量X-射线荧光光谱分析中用于计算理论α系数的计算机程序DRALPHA

在修改后的基本参数法程序NRLXRF基础上本文所研制的计算机程序DRALPHA可用于计算Lachance-Traill或Claisse-Quintin方程中的理论α系数以校正X-射线荧光定量分析中元素间的吸收-增强效应。     

能量色散X射线散射结合主成分分析对液体易制毒化学品的探测与鉴别分类

采用能量色散X射线散射(EDXRS)技术探测了8种液体易制毒化学品的X射线散射光谱, 结果显示液体易制毒物质具有各自特征的EDXRS散射图谱. 将液体易制毒化学品的EDXRS散射信息与主成分分析结合, 发现前2个主成分可以表达X射线散射光谱的主要信息, 在PC1～PC2得分分布图上可将液体易制毒化学品进行分类. 研究结果表明, EDXRS光谱技术结合主成分分析法可以实现探测、 鉴别分类液体易制毒化学品, 为隐藏液体易制毒化学品的监管控制提供一个可行的鉴别方法.     

单波长激发-能量色散X射线荧光光谱法检测蔬菜中多种重金属元素

为实现蔬菜中多种元素的快速检测,利用单波长激发-能量色散X射线荧光光谱仪（MW-EDXRF）,建立了蔬菜中As、Pb、Cd、Cr、Ni、Cu、Zn、Rb、Mn等元素的快速检测方法。对XRF的激发时间、载样量、样品压片等条件进行了优化,结果显示当累积激发时间达到600 s、载样量为2 g、样品压片15 Mpa保持60 s时,可以实现XRF最优检测性能。在最优条件下,As、Pb、Cd、Cr、Ni、Cu、Zn、Rb、Mn的检出限（LOD）分别为0.07 mg/kg、0.07 mg/kg、0.07 mg/kg、0.32 mg/kg、0.32mg/kg、1.2 mg/kg、0.4 mg/kg、0.08 mg/kg、0.3 mg/kg;对菠菜、葱、胡萝卜、豆角、番茄、姜、空心菜、莲藕、芹菜、蒜等蔬菜样品测定11次的相对标准偏差（RSD）在3%~10%,表明方法具有良好的精密度;测定5种蔬菜基体标准物质的回收率在93%~119%,与微波消解电感耦合等离子体质谱法（ICP-MS）测定结果对比的线性回归系数（R2）>0.99（Cu的R2=0.9838）,表明方法具有良好的检测准确度。同时,该仪器仅有不到10 kg,不需要样品消解处理,检测时间在10 min左右,非常适合蔬菜多种重金属的现场快速筛查。     

Study of metal-loaded activated charcoals for the separation and determination of selenium species by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis

Conversion of adsorption properties of activated charcoal (C^∗) by metal modification towards selenite, selenate and seleno-dl-methionine (Se-Met) was studied. Several metals were included in modification studies and also a procedure was developed for the separation and independent determination of microgram quantities of these selenium species in aqueous solution. Selenium species were collected one by one from the same sample solution onto collector material by adsorbing them directly or after complex formation onto different metal-loaded activated charcoals (MgC^∗ and FeC^∗). The mass of selenium in these collectors was measured directly by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDXRF). Detection limits for all three selenium species were better than 6 μg corresponding to concentration of 60 μg/l with 0.100 l of initial sample volume.     

X射线荧光光谱分析

本文评述了我国在2005年至2006年X射线荧光光谱,包括粒子激发的X射线光谱的发展和应用,内容包括仪器研制、激发源、探测器、软件、仪器改造、仪器维护和维修、样品制备技术、分析方法研究和应用.