Feeds BIF compliance efforts require the control of metal input in the process feeds. Monitoring the metal concentrations in these feed streams has been problematic. In addition, excessive manpower and time has been required to utilize these methods.
Alternatives are desirable.
EPA further indicates in this same document that alternate methods can be used. XRF is an established technology for which there are a number of ASTM methods. Numerous technical studies support XRF efficacy. Spectroscopy using both energy and wavelength modes has for some time been used as the method of choice for determining percentage levels of metals in inorganic matrices such as alloys and cement. Recent technological advances that enhance both the resolution and data process capabilities now allow XRF to perform ppm level determinations on a wide range of sample matrices.