Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence determination of uranium in different uranates using Rh Kα scattered peaks for matrix correction

Abstract

Determination of uranium in different matrices and compounds is required for compositional analysis and material characterization of uranium based materials. In the present work, we have explored the possibility of utilising Rh Kα scattered peaks: Compton and Rayleigh, for minimizing the effect of matrix and determining uranium in different matrices using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry. The method was applied for determination of uranium in presence of Na, Zn, Rb, Bi and Th in solid samples presented in the form of compounds and mixtures. Different calibration plots were made for U in different matrices against the intensity of the scattered peaks. Different procedures of calibration were studied using both uranium Lα and Lβ as analytical lines. Sample specimens were presented in the form of fused bead as well as pressed pellets. The advantage of this method is that there is no need to add any standard in the samples. The analytical results of all the studies showed an average deviation of 3% between the EDXRF determined and the expected uranium concentrations and a RSD (Relative Standard Deviation) of 4% (1 s, n = 3).