X-ray fluorescence analysis with a pyroelectric x-ray generator

Several types of handy x-ray fluorescence spectrometers are presented. The results obtained with a Niton spectrometer are presented as a goal to develop a laboratory-made spectrometer using an Amptek Cool-X pyroelectric x-ray generator. A small and cheap charge-up x-ray emitting device and its spectrum are also presented. Handy x-ray spectrometers are now progressing rapidly and the detection limits are in the range of a few ppm for certain elements. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.