Evaluation of preconcentration methods for the determination of trace amounts of rare earth elements by x-ray fluorescence analysis using a conventional x-ray tube system and a synchrotron radiation source

Trace amounts of rare earth elements (REE) were preconcentrated by chemofil tration methods using the organic reagents o-(3,6-disulfo-2-hydroxy-1-napht hylazo)benzenearsonic acid (Thorin) and 2,2 '-(1,8-dihydroxy-3,6-disulfonap hthylene-2,7-bisazo)bisbenzenearsonic acid (Arsenazo III) as complexing age nts for the REE. The resulting specimens (thin film) were then analyzed by an x-ray fluorescence method using two different instruments: a conventiona l x-ray tube system and a synchrotron radiation source. The results from th ese two systems were compared with respect to radiation damage, accuracy, d etection limits and ease of analysis. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.