X-ray Fluorescence Analysis Research Articles

Evaluating metal cookware as a source of lead exposure.

We previously demonstrated that aluminum cookware brought from Afghanistan by resettled families as well as some aluminum cookware available for purchase in the United States represent a previously unrecognized source of lead exposure. However, the extent to which this cookware represents a source of lead exposure to other United States residents is unclear. To test additional cookware for lead content and its propensity to leach lead and other toxic metals. This will further our understanding of the extent to which this cookware represents a lead poisoning risk in the United States and elsewhere. We screened an additional 28 pieces of aluminum cookware and 5 brass items for lead content using an X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer and used our leachate method to estimate the amount of lead that migrates into food. We also tested 17 additional stainless steel items to determine whether they would be safer alternatives. Many aluminum cookware products contained in excess of 100 parts per million (ppm) of lead. Many also leached enough lead under simulated cooking and storage conditions to exceed recommended dietary limits. One hindalium appam pan (an Indian frying pan/wok) leached sufficient lead to exceed the childhood limit by 1400-fold. Brass cookpots from India also yielded high lead levels, with one exceeding the childhood limit by over 1200-fold. In contrast, stainless steel cookware leached much lower levels of lead. Aluminum and brass cookware available for purchase in the United States represents a previously unrecognized source of lead exposure.

A novel calibration method for portable X-ray fluorescence analysis of printed circuit boards.

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are the most complex and valuable component of electronic devices, but only 34% of them are recycled in an environmentally sound manner. Improving the recycling rate and efficiency requires a fast, reliable and uncostly analytical method. Although the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) shows high potential, it is often unreliable. In this study, we propose a novel XRF methodology for the elemental analysis of PCBs, using the certified reference material (CRM) to decrease uncertainty and enhance accuracy. The results show significant improvement in robustness and accuracy of portable XRF(pXRF) analyses for elements Cu, Pb, Ni, As and Au, with a relative average inaccuracy of approximately 5% compared to referenced values. The methodology validation carried out by comparing pXRF and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy analyses of personal computer motherboard samples shows no statistically significant difference for elements Cu, Cr and Ag. The study shows that the calibration of pXRF by CRMs enables the necessary analysis of PCBs in an efficient and reliable manner and could be also be applied to different types of PCBs and other electronic components, batteries or contaminated soil samples.

Optimization of Biodiesel Production Process Using MoO3 Catalysts and Residual Oil: A Comprehensive Experimental 23 Study.

The study aimed to utilize MoO3 catalysts, produced on a pilot scale via combustion reaction, to produce biodiesel from residual oil. Optimization of the process was conducted using a 23 experimental design. Structural characterization of the catalysts was performed through X-ray diffraction, fluorescence, Raman spectroscopy, and particle size distribution analyses. At the same time, thermal properties were examined via thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis. Catalytic performance was assessed following process optimization. α-MoO3 exhibited a monophasic structure with orthorhombic phase, whereas α/h-MoO3 showed a biphasic structure. α-MoO3 had a larger crystallite size and higher crystallinity, with thermal stability observed up to certain temperatures. X-ray fluorescence confirmed molybdenum oxide predominance in the catalysts, with traces of iron oxide. Particle size distribution analyses revealed polymodal distributions attributed to structural differences. Both catalysts demonstrated activity under all conditions tested, with ester conversions ranging from 93% to 99%. The single-phase catalyst had a long life cycle and was reusable for six biodiesel production cycles. The experimental design proved to be predictive and significant, with the type of catalyst being the most influential variable. Optimal conditions included α-MoO3 catalyst, oil/alcohol ratio of 1/15, and a reaction time of 60 min, resulting in high biodiesel conversion rates and showcasing the viability of MoO3 catalysts in residual oil biodiesel production.

The die for the production of the hammered kaptorgas from Kouřim, Central Bohemia

Kaptorgas were small trapezoidal boxes with lids worn by women and girls in early medieval central Europe as magic or protective amulets. The paper presents a new find of a bronze cast die for hammering the front side of kaptorgas, which was excavated at the Nad Dolnicí settlement site located in the hinterland of the important central Bohemian hillfort of Kouřim. The die was used to produce type 1A kaptorgas with a motif of a four-legged eared gryphon with an indication of a wing and a tail ending in a floral decorative element. Although kaptorgas with this particular motif have not been recorded in Bohemia, it has analogies in Bulgaria and Poland. Based on the stylistic assessment of this originally Mediterranean motif and the chronology of type IA kaptorgas in Bohemia, the die can be dated to the 10th and beginning of the 11th century. X-Ray fluorescence analysis and elemental mapping of the object's surface show that it was made from bronze with a significant lead admixture and a small admixture of zinc. The die is discussed in terms of the spread of Mediterranean motifs and their adaptation by local craftsmen.

Identification of Suitable Mesh Size of Commercial Stainless-Steel for Electrochemical Oxygen Evolution Reaction.

The study examines the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalytic efficiency of various stainless-steel mesh (SSM) sizes in electrolytic cells. Stainless steel is chosen due to its widespread availability and stability, making it an economically viable option. The primary objective of this investigation is to determine the optimal stainless-steel mesh size among those currently widely available on the market. The classification of stainless-steel mesh sizes as SS304 is confirmed by the minimal compositional variations observed across all mesh sizes through electron dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses. Remarkably, CV experiments carried out at different scan rates indicate that SSM 200 has the maximum specific electrochemical surface area (ECSA). As a result, SSM 200 demonstrates superior performance in terms of current density response and shows the lowest overpotential in the alkaline medium compared to other stainless-steel mesh sizes. Furthermore, the SSM 200 exhibits a low overpotential of 337 mV at a current density of 10 mA/cm2 and a Tafel slope of 62.2 mV/decade, surpassing the performance of several previously reported electrodes for the OER. Stability tests conducted under constant voltage further confirm the remarkable stability of SSM 200, making it an ideal anode for electrolytic cell applications. These findings emphasize the cost-effectiveness and high stability of SSM 200, presenting intriguing possibilities for future research and advancements in this field.

Enhancement of mineral density and mechanical properties in root caries treated with silver diammine fluoride and glass ionomer cement, with emphasis on silver ion distribution

ObjectivesThis study aimed to measure the distribution of silver ion (Ag+), mineral recovery, and nanohardness in carious lesions and comprehensively evaluate the degree of dentin restoration. MethodsSixty human teeth with root caries were randomly assigned to the control, silver diammine fluoride (SDF) [Safo], and SDF+Glass ionomer cement (GIC) treatment [Safo+Fuji] groups. Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) was performed at five time points for each sample before/after treatment to evaluate mineral density within and around carious lesions. Three months following treatment, 12 samples were selected for synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence analysis to evaluate Ag+ distribution, while 15 samples were selected for nanoindentation. Data were analyzed using Dunnett's T3 test for micro-CT and Wilcoxon rank sum test with Bonferroni correction (p = 0.017) for nanoindentation. The correlation between hardness and mineral change was analyzed using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient. ResultsThe Safo and Safo+Fuji groups showed significantly higher mineral recovery rates than did the control group (p < 0.001). In the Safo group, Ag+ accumulated in the deeper layers rather than the superficial layer of caries. In the Safo+Fuji group, Ag+ was found evenly distributed throughout caries, with only a few Ag+ detected in the GIC layer. Hardness in the Safo+Fuji group was significantly higher compared with the Safo group at depths in the range of 10–50 µm. ConclusionIn the presence of GICs, SDF exhibited high remineralization capacity when diffusing throughout carious lesions over time. Combined treatment with SDF and GIC could strengthen root dentin even in the presence of caries. Clinical significanceWe found that combination treatment with SDF and GIC could increase mineral density in caries and improve the hardness of the tooth structure compared with fluoride-based agents alone. These findings might pave the way for future clinical trials to determine the therapeutic potential of nanotechnology-based restorative materials.

Recycled Iron Phosphates: A New Phosphorus Fertilizer for Paddy Rice.

The potential of recycled iron phosphates (FePs), e.g., vivianites (Fe3(PO4)2·8H2O) and Fe(III)-rich phosphorus (P) adsorbent materials, as phosphorus fertilizer is limited by the strong interaction between Fe and P. In this study, the efficiency of FePs as P fertilizer was explored by applying them as granules or powder in flooded strongly P-fixing soils (acid and calcareous), thereby taking advantage of increased P release induced by reductive dissolution of P-bearing Fe(III) minerals. First, no P diffusion from granular FeP fertilizers into flooded soils was detectable by the diffusive gradient in thin films (DGT) technique and microfocused X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF) analysis of thin soil sections, in contrast to detectable P diffusion away from granules of soluble triple superphosphate (TSP) fertilizer. On the contrary, powdered FePs demonstrated an excellent increase in extractable P (1 mM CaCl2) in a 120-day incubation experiment in flooded soils. Second, a pot experiment was performed with rice (Oryza sativa) grown in flooded acid and calcareous soils. The fertilizer value of FePs was remarkable when dosed as powder, as it was even up to 3-fold higher than TSP in the acid soil and similar to TSP in the calcareous soil. The beneficial effect of FeP over TSP in the acid soil is attributed to the slow release of P from FePs, which allows to partly overcome P fixation. The promising results of FePs as P fertilizer applied as powders in flooded soils debunk the generally accepted idea that FePs are poor sources of P while demonstrating the importance of the timing of FeP fertilizer application.

Tillage and Straw Management Practices Influences Soil Nutrient Distribution: A Case Study from North-Eastern Romania

Tillage practices govern crop quality and quantity through soil nutrient availability and crop root systems. A deeper knowledge of the impact of conservation tillage on soil chemical characteristics (such as pH, soil organic carbon, macro and micronutrient storage and distribution) is required for both the promotion of agricultural sustainability and environmental preservation. This study assesses the changes in soil features and properties in the context of a long-field experiment with different tillage systems and straw management practices. Research findings revealed that compared with conventional tillage (CT) conservative tillage with partial straw retention (MT) and no-tillage with straw mulching (NT) substantially boosted the organic carbon (OC) (by 6–19%), total nitrogen (TN) (by 2–12%), and available potassium content (AK) (by 2–5%), in 0–30 cm soil depth. However, the stratification trend was observed for available macro and micronutrient content (Zn, Fe, Mn) in both conservative management practices. The concentration of Cu indicates a constant pattern through a 0–30 cm soil profile with a higher concentration under MT (1.41 mg kg−1) compared to NT (1.10 mg kg−1). In particular, the results failed to establish if conservation tillage can increase the total phosphorus (TP) and potassium content (TK), where only in surface 0–10 cm an increase was observed. This research also suggested that the X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) of total micronutrient content (Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn) is minimal or unpredictable with no substantial differences between the tillage systems and straw return management practices. These findings suggest that conservation tillage in north-eastern Romania might be optimal to maintain soil quality status and sustain high yields.

Technological research of Adalbert Erdelyi’s still life of the post-Budapest period

The study’s relevance lies in obtaining valuable information about Adalbert Erdelyi’s painting, which enhances the understanding of his artwork, supports efforts at accurate attribution, and enriches the study of art history. The purpose of this study was to characterise artist’s painting materials and technique of the post-Budapest period and introduce obtained results into scientific circulation. The research methodology was based on an integrated general scientific approach that combines theoretical and empirical methods, including art-critic and comparative analyses as well as optical and physicochemical methods. X-ray fluorescence analysis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy were used to determine the artist’s pigment palette. Until now, only a few works of Adalbert Erdelyi’s early creative stage have been known and introduced into scientific circulation. A comprehensive study of Adalbert Erdelyi’s still life was carried out. The stylistic and technological features of the painting that were inherent in the post-Budapest period were established. It has been shown that cardboard made from a mixture of rag fibers and wood pulp was used as the painting support. The type of cardboard gluing and fillers were determined. The still life was painted wet-on-wet on the unprimed support without applying underdrawings. The analysis of the organic binder has shown that the painting was executed in the oil painting technique. Pure lead white was identified in white paints. Lead white with an admixture of zinc white, a mixture of lead white and zinc white, chrome yellow (lead chromate), vermillion, alizarin crimson, ocher, Emerald green (copper acetoarsenite), and Prussian blue were found in the paint layer. The identified pigments and a comparative analysis of oil polymerisation in lead white paint allowed us to confirm that the painting was created in 1918. It is shown that the artistic and style characteristics of the painting correspond to Adalbert Erdelyi’s post-Budapest period. Thus, “Still Life with Glasses on a Tray” can be considered the first known image of glasses with water in the artist’s creative heritage. The results of carried out research are an important informative source in the analysis of the artist’s early works and can be useful for art historians a nd curators of museum collections

Chemical element analysis of Arjuno-Welirang igneous rocks.

Mount Arjuno-Welirang has a geological structure consisting of volcanic breccia, lava, tufan breccia, and tuff. This research focuses on exploring the chemical content of Arjuno-Welirang igneous rocks. The mapping of chemical element content is carried out to provide information on the distribution of Arjuno-Welirang dominant elements which are very important for exploitation and industry. The results of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of seven igneous rock samples showed that there were Al, Si, P, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sr, Ba, Eu, and Re. The dominant elements (Wt% > 10%) are Si (44.4-51.6%), Al (14-19%), Ca (12.1-17.1%), and Fe (12.4-20.4%). In addition, rare earth element REE europium (Eu) content was also found with an average of 0.23 Wt%. The discovery of REE Eu indicates the presence of other REE elements and needs further analysis. The presence of several oxide elements SiO2 and K2O was compared to the surrounding mountains, where SiO2 indicates a greater content of Bromo-Semeru, while K2O is larger than Semeru and smaller than Bromo. This provides an overview of the difference in magma properties, where the results of Arjuno-Welirang igneous rock analysis show alkaline properties while Bromo-Semeru ultrabase. The Fe2O3 content of Arjuno-Welirang shows a smaller tendency than Bromo-Semeru. This shows that Arjuno-Welirang magma is magnetically higher than Bromo-Semeru. The average depth of magma from igneous rocks is calculated between ± 147.7 and ± 225.1km below the earth's surface. These results correlate significantly with K2O compounds where the deeper the magma origin of the sample, the higher the K2O content.

Co-gasification of lignite and spent tea waste for the generation of hydrogen-rich syngas in a fluidized bed gasifier

The co-gasification of high moisture and high volatile content low-rank lignite (LG) coal and a common waste generated from the brewed tea leaves was studied in a fluidized bed gasification unit. Multiple experiments were conducted at different temperatures, ranging from 800 °C to 900 °C, at fixed operating parameters to elucidate the catalytic thermo-chemical impact on the gasifier performance parameters. The catalytic effect of alkali and alkaline earth metals (AAEMs), especially CaO, K2O, and Na2O present in the spent tea waste (STW) sample, on the product gas composition and performance parameters during the co-gasification experiments with LG was demonstrated. Mixed blends of LG and STW showed enhancement in the overall reactivity of the steam gasification runs, compared to the LG-only feed, primarily due to the change in the surface morphology, textures, and pore structures of the solid product ash samples, as identified with the electron spectroscopy analysis. Liquid and product samples were analyzed using characterization techniques such as Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX) analytical techniques, along with the proximate, ultimate, and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of the gasification feed samples. An optimized blend ratio of 20 wt % of STW with LG sample enhanced the volumetric gas composition of H2 and CH4 gases from 52.03 % to 61.32 % and 3.98 %–5.45 % (on a dry-N2-free basis) with a relatively constant CO gas composition. It showed a reduced CO2 composition from 28.64 % to 18.25 % (on a dry-N2-free basis) for the gasification temperature of 900 °C. Even at the lower gasification temperatures of 800 °C and 850 °C with LG + STW feed, steam gasification experiments showed relatively comparable or superior performance to gasification experiments at 900 °C with LG-only feed. The present study indicated a holistic way to utilize the spent tea waste generated from millions of homes and commercial establishments in various parts of the world with potential application towards synergistic gasification process with other conventional carbon-source materials.

Classification of geologic materials used in the Sukhothai Historical Park of Thailand using a portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer and petrographic analysis

The Sukhothai Historical Park, designated as a world heritage site in Thailand, encompasses the remnants of the Sukhothai Kingdom and serves as a valuable locus for geological and geoarchaeological investigations. Situated in the Sukhothai province, the region is characterized by diverse lithologies, including slate, phyllite, and laterite, as well as red bricks (synthetic materials), utilized in the construction of various ancient structures. Petrographic analysis using polarized light microscopy reveals the phyllites as the primary dimension stones, exhibiting foliated and mylonitic textures with small quartz augen. A portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer was employed for geochemical analysis and the analysis of major oxides and trace elements. The resulting data facilitated the classification of protoliths and comparison with rocks from an abandoned quarry near Saritphong Dam in the western part of the historical park. Notably, phyllites utilized in several prominent structures within the park; Wat Saphan Hin, Wat Pa Daeng 2, Wat Thap Sakae, Wat Chetuphon, Wat Sri Chum, and Wat Mangkorn Temples, exhibited similar characteristics to those in the Wat Khao Noi old quarry, as confirmed by Rubidium (Rb) and Strontium (Sr) values. The SiO2/Al2O3 and FeO/K2O ratios were pivotal in identifying the protoliths of the studied phyllites as shales. In summary, the primary dimension stones for Sukhothai Historical Park originated from the western mountain within the park, with laterites sourced from foothill areas. The presence of quartz pebbles in red bricks suggests local sediment utilization, and quartz additions were employed to enhance structural strength. This comprehensive geoarchaeological study sheds light on the geological composition of the Sukhothai Historical Park, providing valuable insights into the selection and utilization of construction materials in this historically significant site.

Effect of pH, Carbonate and Clay Content on Magnesium Measurement Methods on Hungarian Soils

More exact information on soil nutrient management is crucial due to environmental protection, nature conservation, decreasing sources for mining, general precaution, etc. Soil magnesium (Mg) analytical methods of potassium chloride (KCl), Mehlich 3 (M3), water (WA) and cobalt hexamine (CoHex) extractions are compared with an elemental analysis and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis. The ratio of the available to the total Mg content was calculated and compared on the whole dataset. The results showed that the linear regressions between all the pairs of Mg content measurement methods were significant. The linear relationship between the KCl and CoHex methods has the highest determination coefficient (R2 = 0.96), followed by WA–M3 (R2 = 0.68), M3–CoHex (R2 = 0.66) and M3–KCl (R2 = 0.60). The M3 solution demonstrated a greater capacity for extracting Mg from the soil. The second part is the analysis of the influence of CaCO3, pH, soil texture and clay content on the measurable magnesium content of soils. It was established that the extraction methods, the soil and the classification method of the soil properties affect the evaluation. These results may help through the nutrient replenishment and the melioration of soils. These results can help the examination of mineral nutrients, especially the Mg uptake.

XRF Analysis of Village and Urban Basalt Architecture in the Hippos Territorium during the Roman Period

AbstractThis case study examines the use of X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) as an effective method for defining distinct chemical compositions of local basalt stone from different sources in the Roman period, even when their quarries have not been identified. It also deals with the archaeological question if public and monumental structures from a village and urban site shared the same stone sources and stonemason's workshops. Ninety‐six samples from the Hippos Territorium, mainly from the polis of Hippos and the village of Majduliyya, were analyzed. XRF was found to be an effective method for defining distinct chemical compositions of local basalt materials from different sources. The distinct composition of the basalt stones between the two sites provided valuable insights into socio‐economic relationships, shedding light on the nature of city–village dynamics in the region. Additionally, it aids in discerning whether diverse basalt sources were utilized in both private and public constructions, as well as installations within a single site. Methodological questions and the application of this method in the archaeological research of basalt‐based architecture are also addressed.

Mineralogical Characterization of Raw Clay from Rujište (Serbia) Used in Traditional Pottery Manufacture

The pottery produced from the Rujište deposit in Serbia has been protected under the guidance of UNESCO and the Sector for Intangible Cultural Heritage of Serbia since 2019. A study was conducted to evaluate the mineralogical characteristics of the raw clay from this deposit. This study used various techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared (IR) spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and differential thermal analysis (DTA) to characterize the clay. This study found that the clay contained mostly clay minerals (56.3%–41.9%), with illite, smectite, and chlorite as the predominant phases. Other phases identified were quartz, feldspars, carbonates, and iron-bearing minerals (43.8%–58.1%). The chemical analyses revealed a high abundance of silica (&gt;52 wt.%) and alumina (~16 wt.%), with Fe2O3 (~6 wt.%), K2O (~2.8 wt.%), and a similar content of MgO as the main constituents. The physical features that were investigated included the granulometry (clay: ~31%–44%, silt: ~ 26%–23%, and sand: ~ 42%–32%), specific surface area (97 to 107 m2 g−1), cation exchange capacity (12.5–13.7 mmol 100 g−1), and color (yellowish to moderate brown). The preliminary results suggest that most of the raw clay from the Rujište deposit might be suitable for use in traditional pottery manufacture.

The former industrial site of the Angarsk Metallurgical Plant (Svirsk, Russia) 10 years later: current geochemical state and interannual change analysis based on Earth remote sensing data

The former industrial site of the Angarsk Metallurgical Plant (Svirsk, Russia) 10 years later: current geochemical state and interannual change analysis based on Earth remote sensing data

Rapid Market Screening to assess lead concentrations in consumer products across 25 low- and middle-income countries

Lead exposure can have serious consequences for health and development. The neurological and behavioral effects of lead are considered irreversible. Young children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning. In 2020, Pure Earth and UNICEF estimated that one in three children had elevated blood lead levels above 5 µg/dL. The sources of lead exposure vary around the world and can range from household products, such as spices or foodware, to environmental pollution from nearby industries. The aim of this study was to analyze common products from markets in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) for their lead content to determine whether they are plausible sources of exposure. In 25 LMICs, the research teams systematically collected consumer products (metal foodware, ceramics, cosmetics, paints, toys, spices and other foods). The items were analyzed on site for detectable lead above 2 ppm using an X-ray fluorescence analyzer. For quality control purposes, a subset of the samples was analyzed in the USA using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The lead concentrations of the individual product types were compared with established regulatory thresholds. Out of 5007 analyzed products, threshold values (TV) were surpassed in 51% for metal foodware (TV 100 ppm), 45% for ceramics (TV 100 ppm), and 41% for paints (TV 90 ppm). Sources of exposure in LMICs can be diverse, and consumers in LMICs lack adequate protection from preventable sources of lead exposure. Rapid Market Screening is an innovative, simple, and useful tool to identify risky products that could be sources of lead exposure.

Reference-free x-ray fluorescence analysis with a micrometer-sized incident beam

Spatially resolved x-ray fluorescence (XRF) based analysis employing incident beam sizes in the low micrometer range (μXRF) is widely used to study lateral composition changes of various types of microstructured samples. However, up to now the quantitative analysis of such experimental datasets could only be realized employing adequate calibration or reference specimen. In this work, we extent the applicability of the so-called reference-free XRF approach to enable reference-free μXRF analysis. Here, no calibration specimen are needed in order to derive a quantitative and position sensitive composition of the sample of interest. The necessary instrumental steps to realize reference-free μXRF are explained and a validation of ref.-free μXRF against ref.-free standard XRF is performed employing laterally homogeneous samples. Finally, an application example from semiconductor research is shown, where the lateral sample features require the usage of ref.-free μXRF for quantitative analysis.

Influence of trace elements changes in the cerebellum on the rat’s behavior in elevated plus maze in the early period of mild blast-induced traumatic brain injury

The aim of the current study was to determine whether there are changes in brain trace elements of rats with blast-induced trauma and if these changes affect behavior in the elevated plus maze. Materials and methods. The study was carried out on 126 sexually mature male Wistar and were divided into 3 groups: Experimental – exposed to a shock wave 26.4 ± 3.6 kPa (n = 42); Sham (n = 42), the animals of which were subjected to inhalation anesthesia with halothane and fixation in a horizontal position; and Intact (n = 42). Behavior was study in elevated plus maze. The duration of presence in the open and closed arms, the number of stands, the duration of grooming was recorded in all groups of rats for 3 minutes. After, the animals were euthanized with halothane, followed by removal of the brain. The cerebellum was completely separated for spectral analysis using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence analysis (EDRFA) on the analyzer EXPERT 3 XL. Results. Results showed significant changes of cognitive activity in experimental group which are indicate functional disorders of the cerebellum in the form of maladaptation in space with subsequent inhibition of motor centers. Cu/Fe ratio was decreased in the 14th and 21st days and increased in the 28th. Cu/Zn ratio was decreased on the 14th day. Zn/Fe ratio was higher on the 14th and 28th days. The existence of correlations between changes in trace elements and behavioral disorders in experimental rats was established. Conclusions. In the early period of blast-induced traumatic brain injury, cerebellar dysfunction in the form of spatial maladaptation with subsequent depression of motor centers was observed in the experimental rats Correlation analysis showed the presence of different strengths and directions of relationships between the ratios of Cu/Fe, Cu/Zn and Zn/Fe in the cerebellum and behavioral indicators in the elevated plus maze (duration of stay in open and closed arms, grooming and vertical motor activity) of experimental rats.

Ore/waste identification in underground mining through geochemical calibration of drilling data using machine learning techniques

Chemical X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses of drill cuttings and measurement-while-drilling (MWD) records were jointly collected in two production levels with different mineralogical characteristics of a narrow vein underground mine. More than 840 chemical samples and 23,000 MWD records with geological and geotechnical accompanying data constitute the database used in this study. A classification methodology and a site-specific model were developed following two approaches: a k-means clustering heuristic algorithm to define rock classes based on their physicochemical features, and a machine learning (ML) ensemble model trained with those classes to distinguish ore and waste as function of drilling parameters. Oversampling and under sampling techniques are required due to the unbalanced size of the rock classes. The prediction success rate (F1 score) is about 70% for the ore when associated with a high content of silica, and about 86% for the waste. When continuous drilling chips sampling is carried out, the operator bias is reduced and the F1 scores exceed 80% for all classes using different ML techniques. The study presents a complete analysis of the correlations between rock mineralogical characteristics and their mechanical response during drilling, highlighting the benefits that MWD-based information can bring to the analysis-while-drilling (AWD) for ore grading.