PANalytical has developed an application for the analysis of ferroalloys, prepared as fused beads thereby reducing mineralogical and particle size effects. Compared to classic methods, results are equivalent or better in accuracy and precision, with the advantage of gaining time. The intention of this data sheet is to demonstrate the performance of the fused bead method using XRF.
Ferroalloys are important components in metals production with iron and steel smelters as the leading customers of ferroalloys. Silicon manganese (FeSiMn) is one of the most widely used ferroalloys with a high consumption rate. It is primarily used as source of silicon, where the Si content varies from 15 to more than 90%, affecting the final purchase price. Currently, the analysis of ferroalloys is conducted by ‘wet chemistry methods’, with subsequent large delays and high
labor costs. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy is an excellent alternative technique, offering easy routine sample preparation and high throughput. However, the analysis of pressed pellets and loose powders has limitations in precision, due to severe mineralogical as well as particle size effects.
