Handheld XRF analyzer functionality that helps when analyzing catalysts

Catalytic converters for automobile exhaust gases are used to reduce the emission of harmful gases into the atmosphere, primarily carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. For this purpose, oxidation-reduction reactions catalyzed by valuable metals such as platinum, palladium and rhodium are used. For this reason, autocatalyst composition analysis is a widely demanded task, for evaluating the value of spent catalysts.

Handheld X-ray fluorescent (XRF) analyzers are actively used for catalyst analysis because of their autonomy as well as high accuracy and reliability of analysis results. XRF method makes it possible to determine the content of valuable metals in the sample with an accuracy of up to tens of parts per million (ppm) which makes it the most effective method for quality assessment of automotive catalysts. The main advantages of XRF spectrometers are their ease of use, as well as small weight and long operation time without recharge, which makes the analysis of samples in the field no problem even for novice users. In addition to all of these advantages, XRF analyzers require almost no maintenance costs, which often makes them a profitable and quick-return investment.

Measurement averaging

In addition to this, XRF analyzers provide a number of functions that will be useful when analyzing autocatalysts. First and foremost is the ability to average measurements. Because catalysts are highly heterogeneous, for reliable composition analysis, they must be finely ground and measured in the cuvette, but good sample preparation may not always be possible. Although it is highly recommended that a properly prepared sample should be measured for reliable results, when it is necessary to estimate the composition of a catalyst without being able to prepare it for measurement, several measurements of a heterogeneous sample (at different points in the solid sample or by mixing the powdered sample) can be taken and the results of the measurement averaged out. Such a result will not be highly accurate, but is suitable for approximate estimates of sample composition.

Catalyst Valuation

XRF analyzers make it fast and easy to determine the value of the autocatalyst immediately after measuring its composition, thanks to the Catalyst Valuation function, which can automatically calculate the value of the autocatalyst based on its weight, composition, and the current exchange price of the precious metals platinum, palladium and rhodium.

Exporting measurements

In addition, modern handheld analyzers have the ability to export measurement reports, allowing them to be stored on other devices, as well as the ability to connect remotely via Wi-Fi, allowing, for example, fast printing of measurement results.

Also if necessary, XRF spectrometer may include many calibrations for different tasks, so that one device can solve for the user almost any task of analyzing the elemental composition of materials, whether it is autocatalysts, alloys, or ores.

In general, a portable XRF analyzer is an indispensable tool for the analysis of automotive catalysts because no other method except the XRF offers the same accuracy, speed in a compact instrument. Modern XRF spectrometers combine high-tech measurement techniques with a simple and straightforward interface, ensuring not only reliable and accurate analysis, but also convenience and ease of use.