X-RAY FLUORESCENCE APPARATUS

摘要

This invention relates to a portable apparatus for carrying out X-ray fluorescence spectrometry on specimen materials at a distance from the apparatus. The apparatus comprises an X-ray generating tube (1), such as a microfocus tube, and two paraboloidal X-ray reflecting mirrors. The first collecting mirror (11) is positioned in close coupled arrangement adjacent to the exit window (3) of the tube (1), such that it emits parallel X-ray radiation (14) to the second focusing mirror (12) which is aligned on the axis of and spaced apart from the first mirror (11). The second mirror (12) collects the parallel X-ray radiation (14) at its end closest to the first mirror (11) and emits X-ray radiation in a focused beam onto the specimen (20). The distance between the first and second mirrors is adjusted to suit the distance from the X-ray tube (1) to the specimen (20). Focal spots on the specimen (20) of diameter less than 15 mu m are possible, enabling precise analysis of small areas of the specimen.