Electron probe micro-analysis (EPMA)
True-colour cathodoluminescence image taken with the Cameca SX100. Fluorite (blue-violet) is shown associated with calcite (yellow-orange) in a carbonatite from India.
Instrument: Cameca SX100 Electron Microprobe
Detectors:
- 5 wavelength dispersive X-ray (WDX) spectrometers
- Bruker AXS 4010 XFlash silicon drift energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) detector
- secondary electron detector
- backscattered electron detector
- panchromatic cathodoluminescence detector
Key instrument capabilities
This dedicated WDX electron microprobe is capable of unattended overnight elemental analysis of materials in polished sections or blocks.
Images from the sample surface can also be obtained using the secondary and backscattered electron detectors and the panchromatic cathodoluminescence detector.
How it works
Analysis is achieved by focusing a beam of electrons onto the sample surface that produces X-rays with wavelengths or energies characteristic of the elements present.
Quantitative analyses can be obtained for: elements with an atomic number greater than 5 (boron).
Typical detection limits: in the order of 0.02 wt %.
-
Examples of Cameca SX100 applications
View some examples of how the Cameca SX100 electron microprobe can be used to obtain X-ray elemental maps and true-colour cathodoluminescence images of samples.
-
Providing samples for analysis using the Cameca SX100
Find out what can be analysed and how to provide samples for analysis.
-
Preparation of samples for electron probe micro-analysis
Learn how the Museum’s analysis centre gets samples ready for quantitative analytical work using an electron microprobe.
Contact details
For further information or to arrange to use the instrument contact:
John Spratt
Tel: +44 (0)20 7942 5522
Fax: +44 (0)20 7942 5811
Email
Examples of Cameca SX100 applications
View some examples of how the Cameca SX100 electron microprobe can be used to obtain X-ray elemental maps and true-colour cathodoluminescence images of samples.