Bruker TRACER 5 XRF Spectrometer

Bruker TRACER 5 XRF Spectrometer

The Bruker TRACER 5 XRF Spectrometer is a portable and compact X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer used for non-destructive elemental analysis of materials. It’s designed for field applications where quick, accurate, and in situ measurements of material composition are necessary.

Features:

1. Portable and Lightweight:
   • The TRACER 5 is specifically designed to be portable, making it easy to carry to different locations, including fieldwork, construction sites, or laboratory settings.
   • It is relatively lightweight compared to benchtop XRF instruments, which makes it ideal for mobile applications.
2. Wide Elemental Range:
   • The TRACER 5 XRF can analyze a broad range of elements, typically from sodium (Na) to uranium (U), depending on the configuration.
   • It is capable of measuring both light and heavy elements, making it versatile for a variety of materials.
3. High Sensitivity:
   • The spectrometer provides high sensitivity for detecting low concentrations of elements, making it ideal for trace element analysis.
   • Advanced detectors, such as silicon drift detectors (SDD), provide enhanced sensitivity and resolution.
4. Ease of Use:
   • It typically comes with a touchscreen interface that simplifies operation. This allows users to set up and initiate analyses quickly with minimal training.
   • The system provides real-time results, making it useful for on-the-spot decision-making.
5. Flexible Measurement Modes:
   • The instrument can perform qualitative and quantitative analysis, allowing for a detailed understanding of material composition.
   • It can be used for various sample types, including solids, powders, liquids, and coatings.
6. User-Friendly Software:
   • The TRACER 5 comes with software that allows for easy data analysis and reporting. The software provides various features, including calibration and standardization, as well as the ability to export data for further processing.
7. Battery-Powered Operation:
   • The instrument is typically powered by rechargeable batteries, allowing for convenient use in remote locations without the need for an external power source.
8. Applications:
   • Environmental Analysis: Measuring contamination in soil, water, or sediments.
   • Geological and Mining Applications: Mineral identification and ore analysis.
   • Manufacturing Quality Control: Monitoring material composition in industrial settings.
   • Art and Archaeology: Identifying materials in artifacts, paintings, and other cultural heritage items.
   • Forensics: Analyzing trace evidence or materials found at crime scenes.

Typical Analytical Process:

1. Preparation: Position the sample in front of the XRF analyzer.
2. Excitation: The XRF spectrometer generates X-rays that excite the atoms in the sample.
3. Detection: The excited atoms emit fluorescent X-rays, which are detected by the spectrometer.
4. Analysis: The X-ray spectrum is analyzed to determine the elements present and their concentrations.

Benefits:

• Non-Destructive: It doesn’t require sample preparation or alteration, which is important when dealing with valuable or delicate materials.
• Real-Time Results: Immediate feedback allows for quick decision-making, especially useful in applications like quality control and field testing.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to traditional laboratory-based analyses, it is often more cost-effective due to lower sample preparation costs and faster turnaround times.

The detector configuration and a small distance between the sample and detector make for a very sensitive system with some of the lowest detection limits available today. The TRACER 5 has approximately three times the sensitivity of the previous generation TRACERs, with helium purge TRACER 5 is the only handheld XRF that can elements as light as fluorine.

Specifications:

1. X-ray Tube

• X-ray Tube: 50 kV, Rhodium (Rh) anode
• Beam Geometry: Focused X-ray beam, which ensures high sensitivity and resolution.

2. Detector

• Detector Type: Silicon Drift Detector (SDD)
• Energy Resolution: Typically around 140 eV at 5.9 keV (for high-resolution analysis)
• Detector Size: Optimized for high sensitivity in portable configurations.
• Spectral Range: Typically covers elements from Sodium (Na) to Uranium (U).

3. Analysis Capabilities

• Element Range: From Na (Sodium) to U (Uranium).
• Minimum Detection Limit: Low parts per million (ppm) range for many elements, depending on the element and matrix.
• Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis: Supports both qualitative and quantitative analysis, using both fundamental parameters (FP) and standardless analysis methods.
• Analysis Time: Typically from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the sample type and analysis mode.

4. Sample Types

• Sample Formats: Solids, liquids, powders, and thin coatings.
• Analysis Mode: Can handle a wide range of sample materials without needing preparation.

5. Software

• Operating System: Runs on an integrated touch-screen interface with user-friendly software.
• Software Features:
  • Real-time results with easy-to-interpret spectra.
  • Pre-calibrated libraries and the option to create custom calibration.
  • Data analysis with elements concentration, peak intensity, and fluorescence spectra.
  • Capability to export data in various formats, such as CSV or Excel, for further processing and reporting.

6. Calibration and Standardization

• Standardless Quantification: Using fundamental parameters (FP) or empirical calibration for various sample types.
• Calibration with Certified Standards: Can be performed for higher precision in quantitative analysis.

7. Display and Interface

• Display: 5.7” or larger color touch-screen for easy control and operation.
• User Interface: Simple and intuitive, designed for both novice and experienced users.

8. Battery and Power

• Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (e.g., 10-12 hours of battery life depending on usage and settings).
• Power Supply: 100-240 V, AC for charging, with global compatibility.

9. Environmental Conditions

• Operating Temperature: Typically from 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).
• Humidity: Operates effectively in moderate humidity environments.
• Dust and Water Protection: Designed for fieldwork, often with a rugged housing for protection against dust and moisture.

10. Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions: Approximately 28 cm × 13 cm × 10 cm (11″ × 5″ × 4″).
• Weight: Approximately 1.5 to 2 kg (3.3 to 4.4 lbs), making it highly portable.

11. Additional Features

• Data Storage: Onboard memory for storing results and spectra for later analysis.
• Connectivity: USB and wireless options for data transfer, including integration with other software or external devices for reporting.
• Safety Features: Includes safety features such as automatic shutoff, shielding, and other precautions for operator safety in the field.

12. Applications

• Environmental: Soil, water, and sediment testing.
• Mining & Geology: Ore analysis and mineral identification.
• Art & Archaeology: Analysis of artifacts and historical materials.
• Manufacturing & Quality Control: Checking material composition for industrial applications.
• Forensics: Trace element analysis for forensic investigations.