Fundamental algorithm between concentration and intensity in XRF analysis 1—theory

A new formalism is proposed to correct with accuracy the matrix effects in x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. It has been deduced from Sherman's equations and includes a new algorithm between concentration and intensity, theoretically exact, and explicit expressions permitting the calculation of α ij and ρ ij coefficients that correct for absorption and enhancement effects, respectively. In other words, the concept of correction coefficients is established on a solid theoretical basis. In the second part, it will be shown how to adapt this new formalism to practical situations. From an estimate of composition calculated by the Claisse–Quintin algorithm and an appropriate calibration, the new algorithm is used to refine the estimated composition for greater accuracy. This last approach is equivalent to the ‘fundamental parameters’ method but is presented in a simpler version adaptable to any mini‐computer.