XRF
Science & Engineering abbreviation · Chemistry
| Stands for | X-ray fluorescence |
|---|---|
| Categories | Science & Engineering |
XRF stands for X-ray fluorescence, a chemistry abbreviation.
Non-destructive way to find which elements a material contains by exciting it with X-rays and measuring the characteristic secondary X-rays each element emits. Handheld XRF analyzers sort scrap metal, screen toys and paint for lead, check jewelry and examine artworks and archaeological finds on site.
Example: A handheld XRF reading of 1.4 mg/cm2 lead on the window trim exceeded the lead-based paint threshold.
Usage notes
XRF works poorly for the lightest elements, below about sodium, because their X-rays are weak and absorbed by air. Results describe elements rather than compounds, so XRF alone cannot tell rust from metallic iron. Several Mars rovers have carried X-ray spectrometers to identify the elements in rocks and soil.