An X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer is an x-ray instrument used for routine, relatively non-destructive chemical analyses of rocks, minerals, sediments and fluids. It works on wavelength-dispersive spectroscopic principles that are similar to an electron microprobe (EPMA). However, an XRF cannot generally make analyses at the small spot sizes typical of EPMA work (2-5 microns), so it is typically used for bulk analyses of larger fractions of geological materials. The relative ease and low cost of sample preparation, and the stability and ease of use of x-ray spectrometers make this one of the most widely used methods for analysis of major and trace elements in rocks, minerals, and sediment.

XRF Analysis Rates

User category	Method	Cost per sample (Rs)
Undergraduate (University of Peradeniya)	Powder Sample With mapping With Sample Preparation (Fusion Bead/Pressed Pellets)	6,500.00 7,000.00 8,000.00
MSc/MPhil/PhD-PGIS registered students	Powder Sample With mapping With Sample Preparation (Fusion Bead/Pressed Pellets)	5,000.00 6,000.00 7,000.00
Other Universities/research Institutes/Other Government Institute	Powder Sample With mapping With Sample Preparation (Fusion Bead/Pressed Pellets)	8,000.00 9,000.00 10,000.00
Other Universities/research Institutes/Other Government Institute	Powder Sample With mapping With Sample Preparation (Fusion Bead/Pressed Pellets)	10,000.00 12,000.00 15,000.00