Now, by employing IXRF Systems’ advanced mapping, micro-spot energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (microEDXRF) spectroscopy, it is possible to rapidly scan centerline areas and quantitatively monitor elemental inhomogeneity. Sample preparation is simple, only a clean milled surface is required and pixel concentrations less than one-tenth of a weight percent can be measured and mapped. Pixel size can be varied, as the focused x-ray source can produce beam diameters from 5 to over 100 microns, ideal for rapidly mapping macrosegregation from tens to hundreds of microns. With the x-ray source normal to the sample surface, the exciting area is round and multiple detectors, up to four, can be used to measure higher count rates. Map data files can contain as many as 5 GBs or more. While many key elements co-segregate in continuously cast high strength steels, of particular interest is manganese (Mn) which is the primary hardening agent that can easily be measured in an air environment. Other segregating elements of interest include: Cr, Ni, Mo, S, P, Al and Si. The Atlas not only provides visual evidence of macrosegregation in elemental maps, but quantitative measurement of elemental concentrations in the centerline region of continuously cast billets and slabs. Quantification of segregating element concentrations is determined against a range of reference steel standards using linear regression, providing accurate quantitative results. X-ray elemental maps can also be used to identify and study in greater detail inhomogeneity problems in steels and other materials, natural and man-made, such as inclusions and impurities. Atlas can automatically identify and quantify impurities and inclusions within a map. The versatile Atlas mapping software and automated stage control enable unique rapid return on command to map locations of interest with exacting stage relocation precision (one micron). This unique on-command “Go-to” feature can rapidly drive the stage to any area of interest, inclusion, or inhomogeneity for further detailed study and/or to confirm initial mapping results. This capability provides corroboration of initial mapping results and the ability to refine mapping results in greater detail if needed or desired. The IXRF Atlas system provides a game-changing, non-destructive capability for monitoring the homogeneity of natural and manmade materials and how they can affect some of their chemical and structural properties.
