Elemental Analysis
A non-destructive analytical technique measures the emission of characteristic secondary X-rays from a material to determine its elemental composition. In textile testing, X-ray fluorescence is used to detect restricted heavy metals in fabrics, prints and metal trims. This method allows rapid screening without destroying the garment.
It is a primary tool for compliance testing of children’s wear.
Excitation Process
The instrument directs a high-energy primary X-ray beam at the textile sample, displacing electrons from the inner shells of the atoms. When outer-shell electrons fall to fill these vacancies, they emit secondary X-rays that are unique to each element. This emission allows the x-ray fluorescence system to identify and quantify the metal atoms present.
The test is completed in a few minutes.
Industrial Testing
This non-destructive method is widely used at factory gates and port inspections to screen for toxic metals like lead, cadmium and mercury. Sourcing agencies utilize portable spectrometers to verify the safety of metal buttons, zippers and coated fabrics on the spot. If a sample shows elevated metal levels, it is sent to a laboratory for wet chemical analysis.
This screening reduces testing costs and prevents contaminated accessories from entering the assembly line.
Detection Limits
While the technique is fast, its detection limits for light elements are higher than those of inductively coupled plasma systems. This limitation must be considered when analyzing light organic elements.
