An approach to the multi element analysis of sea-nodules by wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescene Spectrometry

Abstract

Large deposit of sea-bed nodules became a continuous source of important metals like Mn, Ni, Cu, Co, Zn, Pb etc. The problem of matrix in poly-component sea nodule has been found to affect the instrumental techniques of analysis. Fortron IV programmes LAMA-1 and LAMA-2 proposed by the earlier researchers to counter balance the 'matrix effect' in XRF analysis, makes the process more tedious. The Stephenson's requirement of having full knowledge about samples and standards and also about homogeneity has been utilized in the present study. The effort is made to analyze the poly-component sample from the same lot. UV-visible emission spectroscopy was used to semi quantitatively ascertain the presence of elements in the samples. Results so obtained were accurate and reproducible.