X-Ray Fluorescence is a phenomena in which an incident x-ray ejects an inner shell electron from an atom, whereby an electron from a higher shell falls down to fill the vacancy left by the ejected electron. The energy from the electron falling is given off in the form of a fluorescent x-ray. These fluorescent x-rays can be detected and the energies measured to quickly identify the elements present in the sample. For lighter elements, the inner shell electron comes from the K-shell. However, in the case of heavier elements, the K-shell electrons are held too tightly. Therefore, an L-shell or an M-shell electron is ejected.<br/>Hands-on experience with different instrumentation is crucial for developing a proper understanding of the fundamentals of different analysis techniques. Therefore, laboratory experiments were developed to be incorporated into General Chemistry, Quantitative Analysis, Instrumental Analysis, and Quantum Mechanics classes in order to expose students to a wider variety of instrumentation. The General Chemistry lab will focus on the non-destruction nature of the instrument and its use with complex mixtures. For Quantitative Analysis, the students will learn about the quantitative effects of the sample matrix on the signal. The Instrumental Analysis lab will delve into signal-to-noise ratios. Finally, the Quantum Mechanics experiment will examine the theory behind x-ray fluorescence by predicting characteristic x-rays. The experiments are designed to focus on different aspects of the instrument. Therefore, come graduation, the students will have gained a deeper understanding of the theory and applications of x-ray fluorescence. This experience will better prepare students for a future in the sciences, whether it be in the workforce or graduate school.

Expanding instrumentation access through the incorporation of portable x-ray fluorescence spectrometry into the curriculum

251st National Meeting (2016)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.