Apparatus and method for fluorescent x-ray analysis of light and heavy elements

摘要

A method and apparatus for measuring fluorescent X-rays from a sample include an X-ray voltage tube having a variable applied voltage during the measurement cycle. The resulting fluorescent X-rays are measured by a detector that output representative signals. The representative signals are used to calculate a characteristic energy spectrum which can be displayed to an operator. The use of a varying voltage ensures detecting both light and heavy elements. An X-ray filter can also be inserted to prevent any characteristic X-rays from being generated from the X-ray gun itself.