Application of Micro‐ XRF in Forensic Analysis: Advances, Potentialities, and Limitations

Micro‐X‐ray fluorescence (μXRF) has emerged as a powerful tool in forensic analysis due to its high sensitivity, detailed spectral mapping capabilities, and nondestructive nature. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the operating principles of μXRF, its applications in various forensic fields such as the analysis of gunshot residues, glass fragments, artworks, and archaeological artifacts, as well as its potential in environmental investigations. Through case studies and literature analysis, we demonstrate how μXRF significantly contributes to the resolution of complex cases by enabling the precise identification of chemical elements in samples of diverse natures. Despite its advantages, the technique also has limitations, such as the inability to analyze lighter elements and size constraints in sample chambers of the equipment.