X-ray fluorescence spectrometry analysis for minerals with agaron gel for sample preparation

A mineral sample preparation with agaron gel used in X-ray fluorescence analysis was developed. Mineral samples were decomposed with aqua-regia. The sample solution mixed with agaron gel was heated to boiling and then it would become quasi-solid gel under normal temperature. The elements dispersed in gel medium could be detected by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. The method has both advantages of the solution preparation method and the solid preparation method. In addition, this method was adapted in detecting high content ores due to its' avoiding the risk of using platinum crucibles. The method has been applied to the determination of lead, zinc and iron in zinc and lead concentrates successfully.