Knowledge Center

XRF vs OES: Which Analyzer Should You Choose?

Both techniques analyze metals — but they solve different problems. Here is how to decide.

304 vs 316 Stainless Steel

The definitive comparison for PMI inspectors and material engineers.

What is PMI (Positive Material Identification)?

PMI verifies that the metal you installed is the metal you specified.

Understanding XRF Detection Limits (LOD)

LOD depends on element, matrix, count time, and detector — not just the brochure number.

Scrap Metal Sorting with XRF

Practical grade-sorting logic for mixed scrap loads — Ni, Zn, and Cu-Zn fingerprints.

Portable XRF in Materials Science Labs

From undergraduate alloy labs to PhD thesis triage — a department playbook.

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Portable XRF for Geology Field Camps

Screen pathfinders in the field — prioritize lab assay dollars on the best samples.

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XRF for Environmental Soil Studies

Map Pb and other metals quickly — understand when EPA-style lab methods are required.

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Non-Destructive XRF for Archaeology

Analyze bronze, metals, and pigments without sampling — ideal for unique objects.

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XRF Catalyst Screening for Chemistry Labs

Reduce ICP queue time — screen loading and major elements on powders first.

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XRF for Welds, Failures & Additive Manufacturing

Verify parent metal and HAZ alloys before microscopy — senior design and thesis workflows.

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XRF for Rebar & Construction Materials

Confirm steel grades on site and in the lab — structural forensics and durability studies.

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XRF Ore & Concentrate Screening

Prioritize assay budgets — screen Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, and Fe on crushings before full lab analysis.

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XRF for Farmland & Soil Science

Map Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cd in field trials — large grids for agronomy capstone projects.

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XRF for Jewelry & Decorative Metals

Teaching karat labs and conservation studios — Au, Ag, Cu, Zn fingerprints in seconds.

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