Limits of detection in XRF spectroscopy

The most important characteristic of analytical procedure is the limit of detection especially in the analyses of toxic substance in the environment. This concept is used in many fields that may contribute to various controversial definitions and practice for its determination. This work was motivated by the possible use of the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) available detection system to detect the heavy toxic element present in some imported polyethylene and plastic goods and to verify their conformity with the European Union RoHS compliance. A review of the concept of limits of detection with its experimental determination for XRF spectroscopy was necessary to select the adequate practical calculation method. The results obtained show that the correct and practical approach to determine the limits of detection in XRF spectroscopy should be the calibration curve approach. Copyright (c) 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.