XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence)

The facility is a part of the Archaeometry Laboratory, was set up especially for that use, but can also be used for analyzing rocks, metals, ceramics and other materials not associated with archaeometry. X-rays from an Americium source are directed at a selectable target, usually tin. The characteristic X-rays from that target are aimed at the user's sample. This causes emission (fluorescence) of characteristic X-rays from the sample. These X-rays from the sample are captured in a Si-Li detector and analyzed by computer. The energy spectrum of these X-rays can be used to identify the elements found in the sample.

Handling of samples is greatly simplified by the open-air nature of the instrument. Operation without a vacuum chamber has the disadvantage of decreased sensitivity to light elements.