Regulations restricting the use of hazardous substances in manufacturing are proliferating worldwide. Their aim: reducing the health and environmental impacts of certain harmful materials in consumer goods and other products. Different standards apply in different countries, affecting products from electrical and electronic components to toys and cosmetics, as well as raw materials and additives.
Fortunately, analytical technology has kept pace with regulatory demands. Analyzers employing X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry have evolved excellent capabilities for rapid screening. For example, the new SPECTROCUBE XRF spectrometer can deliver elemental testing for compliance with exceptional speed, plus demonstrated ease of use and reliability. Its design also enables adding new elements via simple software updates. This paper will focus on benchtop XRF instrumentation, while noting where other analyzer types are recommended.
