Background

Measurement of CaCO₃, MgCO₃, Fe₂O₃, Al₂O3, SiO₂ and K₂O in high calcium limestone is demonstrated using empirical calibration. Limestone (calcium carbonate) has many uses as the main ingredient in cement and mortar, and is used as an aggregate in concrete and asphalt for building roads. Limestone is also used as a soil conditioner and is the raw material for making quick lime (calcium oxide), slaked lime (calcium hydroxide). During mining and processing operations it is important to monitor and control the limestone composition to ensure proper quality and characteristics desired for the various products. Rigaku meets this industry need with a high performance low cost benchtop EDXRF system. Rugged and reliable, the NEX QC+ is an ideal tool for measuring major carbonate and oxide components in limestone, with simple and intuitive software designed for the non-technical at-line operator and for use in quality control labs.