The Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 GOLDD XRF Analyzer is a versatile and robust handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer. It’s designed for rapid, on-site elemental analysis in a wide range of applications.

Here are the key specifications for the Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 980 GOLDD XRF Analyzer:

General Specifications:

• Technology: X-ray Fluorescence (XRF)
• Sample Type: Solids, powders, liquids (with appropriate sample cup)
• Analysis Time: Typically 10-60 seconds per reading, depending on the element and desired precision.
• User Interface: Intuitive touchscreen display with icon-driven menus, user-friendly software.
• Data Storage: Internal memory (typically thousands of readings), expandable via SD card.
• Connectivity: USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (optional) for data transfer and reporting.
• Power: Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery pack.
• Operating Temperature: -10°C to 50°C (14°F to 122°F)
• Operating Humidity: 10% to 90% non-condensing
• Dimensions (L x W x H): Approximately 10.25 x 9.05 x 3.5 inches (260 x 230 x 89 mm)
• Weight: Approximately 3.0 lbs (1.36 kg) without battery, 3.5 lbs (1.59 kg) with battery.
• Construction: Rugged, robust design for field use, often with IP ratings for dust and water resistance.

X-Ray System Specifications:

• X-ray Tube: Miniature, end-window Rhodium (Rh) anode.
• High Voltage: Variable, typically up to 50 kV.
• Current: Variable, typically up to 200 µA.
• Filter: Multiple integrated X-ray beam filters for optimizing excitation of specific elements and minimizing background noise. The “GOLDD” technology often implies specific filter configurations for improved performance.
• Detector: Silicon Drift Detector (SDD) – This is a key feature of the XL2 980 GOLDD, offering excellent energy resolution and high count rates for faster and more accurate analysis.
  • Energy Resolution: Typically < 145 eV at 5.9 keV Mn Kα.
• Collimator: Various apertures to control the size of the analysis spot.

Analytical Capabilities:

• Elements Analyzed: Capable of analyzing a wide range of elements from Magnesium (Mg) to Uranium (U), depending on the specific application and calibration.
• Detection Limits: Very low ppm (parts per million) detection limits for many elements, especially with the GOLDD technology.
• Accuracy & Precision: High accuracy and precision achievable for quantitative analysis.
• Applications/Modes:
  • Alloy Mode: Rapid identification and quantification of metals and alloys (ferrous, non-ferrous, precious metals).
  • Mining & Exploration: On-site identification of valuable ore samples.
  • Environmental: Screening for heavy metals in soil, water, and other environmental samples.
  • RoHS/WEEE: Screening for restricted hazardous substances in electronics.
  • Consumer Goods: Verification of material composition.
  • Field/Portable Metallurgical Analysis: On-site confirmation of material grades.
  • Jewelry/Precious Metals: Rapid assaying of gold, silver, platinum, etc.
• Calibration:
  • Empirical Calibration: Based on known standards.
  • Fundamental Parameters: Theoretical calculations based on element properties.
  • User-Defined Calibrations: Ability to create custom calibrations for specific applications.

Key Features of the “GOLDD” Technology:

The “GOLDD” (Geometrically Optimized Large Area Drift Detector) technology is a significant differentiator for this model. It typically refers to an optimized detector geometry and potentially a larger detector area, which, combined with an SDD, leads to:

• Faster Analysis Times: Improved signal-to-noise ratio allows for quicker readings.
• Lower Detection Limits: Enhanced sensitivity for detecting trace elements.
• Improved Accuracy: More precise measurements.