Fundamental parameter based quantification algorithm for confocal nano-X-ray fluorescence analysis

A new method for the quantification of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) was derived based on the fundamental parameter method (FPM). The FPM equations were adapted to accommodate the special case of confocal nano-XRF, i.e. X-ray nano-beam excitation coupled with confocal detection, taking into account the special characteristics of the detector channel polycapillary. A thorough error estimation algorithm based on the Monte Carlo method was applied, producing a detailed analysis of the uncertainties of the quantification results. The new FPM algorithm was applied on confocal nano-XRF data obtained from cometary dust returned by NASA's Stardust mission, recorded at beamline ID13 of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility.

► A new method for the quantification of confocal XRF is presented.
► The quantification is based on the fundamental parameter method (FPM).
► The new FPM algorithm was applied for the analysis of unique cometary dust particles.
► The cometary particles were returned by NASA's Stardust mission in 2006.
► Error estimation is based on the Monte Carlo method.