When Should You Use Lab-Based XRF to Analyze Polymers and Plastics?

When to use XRF Lab-based X-ray fluorescence ( XRF) analyzers have many applications for elemental analysis. The polymers industry is one of many putting XRF technology to work in daily operations.

XRF is the best method for the analysis of trace elements in polymers. Additives such as plasticisers, lubricants, stabilizing agents, neutralizers, antioxidants, pigments, as well as catalytic agents, are used to make polymers. XRF is an important process control tool to evaluate the presence of these agents in the finished product. Elements, including aluminum, phosphorous, chlorine, titanium and iron are typically analyzed between 5 and 100 ppm.

Polymer technology has advanced rapidly over the last several decades, giving rise to products with significantly improved properties. However, as the quality of plastic products has increased, so has the quantity of plastic products ending up in landfills. Many of these products contain toxic metals that can leach out into the environment. Read this blog to learn why XRF is the most appropriate solution for Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) analysis.

To learn more about lab-based XRF and how it differs from handheld XRF, read Laboratory-based XRF vs. Handheld XRF: What’s the Difference?

To better understand the two primary types of lab-based XRF systems, Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) and Wavelength Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (WDXRF), read EDXRF: How Does It Work? and WDXRF: How Does It Work?

Then download our free eBooks: Portable XRF Technology and XRF in the Lab for the Non-Scientist.