Applied Rigaku Technologies introduce a new low cost, high resolution benchtop Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) elemental analyzer, the Rigaku NEX QC+. The compact NEX QC+ delivers rapid quantitative determination of sodium (11Na) to uranium (92U) in solids, liquids, powders and alloys and is compliant with the ISO 13032 method (Application Note #1272) for determination of ultra-low sulfur in diesel (ULSD).
Derived from the NEX QC elemental analyzer that was introduced in 2011, this new instrument was likewise designed for routine quality control applications. The new instrument is differentiated by a high-resolution Peltier cooled Silicon Drift Detector (SDD) that, together with a 50kV X-ray tube, delivers exceptional short-term repeatability and long-term reproducibility with excellent elemental peak separation. This high voltage capability (50 kV), along with multiple automated X-ray tube filters, provides a wide range of applications versatility and low limits-of-detection (LOD). Like the NEX QC, it has an intuitive smartphone style touch screen interface for easy operation and a built-in printer for convenience.
A silicon drift detector (SDD) affords extremely high count rate capability with excellent spectral resolution. This enables the Rigaku NEX QC+ to deliver the highest precision analytical results in the shortest possible measurement times. The unique engineering feature of a SDD is the transversal electrical field generated by a series of ring electrodes that forces charge carriers to 'drift' to a small collection electrode. Current generation SDD detectors, with the field effect transistor (FET) moved out of the radiation path, represent the current state-of-the-art in conventional EDXRF detector technology.
Options for the NEX QC+ include fundamental parameters, an automatic sample changer, a sample spinner and helium purge for enhanced light element sensitivity. Applications for the NEX QC span a broad spectrum of analytical needs and industries. In addition to the ULSD application, the new Rigaku NEX QC+ offers superior performance for backup cement analysis (Application Note #1273) and for the valuation of automotive catalysts (Application Note #1254).
