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Why Visual Inspection Falls Short

Relying on colour, luster, or density to identify minerals is risky. Weathering masks metal‑bearing phases and many gangue minerals imitate valuable ones. A misplaced bet on geology can mean wasted haulage, reagent overuse, or penalties at the smelter.

How X‑ray Fluorescence (XRF) Works

  1. Excitation – A primary X‑ray beam strikes the sample.
  2. Emission – Inner‑shell electrons are ejected; outer electrons fall inward, releasing element‑specific fluorescent photons.
  3. Detection & Quantification – A silicon‑drift detector converts those photons into a spectrum. Calibrated software reports each element’s weight‑percent in seconds, without destroying the sample.

Because every element above sodium (Na) has a unique fluorescent signature, XRF spans everything from alumina to zinc—even trace levels.


Case Study: Rapid Iron‑Ore Screening

ElementConcentration (wt %)
Calcium95 %
Iron5 %

A handheld XRF scan flagged this “iron‑rich” rock as mostly limestone, preventing unnecessary crushing and transport. Detecting iron at just five percent illustrates XRF’s sensitivity—crucial for:


Benefits of XRF for Mining & Recycling Professionals

BenefitImpact on Operations
Real‑time data (1‑10 s)Faster decisions, reduced downtime
Non‑destructiveRetain sample for further tests
Portable & in‑situAnalyse core, muck piles, or conveyor streams
Low operating costNo reagents, minimal consumables
Regulatory complianceDemonstrate due diligence for ISO 17025 & ESG audits

Ready to Optimise Your Ore or Scrap Stream?

📧 application@lla.de | ☎️ +49 (0)30 4091‑2840

Schedule a free consultation. Discover how X‑ray fluorescence can unlock hidden value and ensure process reliability—from exploration to final assay.

Contact Us

Justus-von-Liebig
Straße 9/11
12489 Berlin
Germany

Phone:
+49 30 629 0790-0
Email:
mail@lla.de