Application of the Least-Squares Method to the Analysis of XRF Spectral Intensities from Atmospheric Particulates Collected on Filters

Abstract

The least-squares method with complete component library spectra is applied to the quantitative analysis of X-ray fluorescence spectral intensities. An approach is outlined for application to the general case of thick homogeneous samples at high counting rates, A simplified approach can be taken with the more specific case represented, by atmospheric particulates collected on filters. The details and sample results of this approach for this specific case are given for an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analyzer. The results indicate that the least-squares method as developed and applied here is valid and should prove generally useful to X-ray analysts.