Comparison of Grazing Emission XRF with Total Reflection XRF and Other X-Ray Emission Techniques

A preliminary comparison of a new x-ray fluorescence (XRF) technique, grazing emission x-ray fluorescence (GEXRF), with several other XRF techniques is described, based on previous experiments and literature. These techniques are total reflection XRF, conventional energy-dispersive XRF, wavelength-dispersive XRF and particle-induced x-ray emission. The comparison is done from a number of viewpoints, including preferred sample type and size, multi-element determination, interferences, accuracy, detection limits and cost of instruments. Different analytical procedures for aqueous solutions between these techniques are indicated. Particular emphasis is placed on the position of the GEXRF technique, and it is indicated for what sample types and/or analytical problems GEXRF will offer significant advantages over the other techniques.