Soil and sediment have a crucial role in our life as the foundation for agricultural crops and forests, and also by retaining water. When soil is polluted, it negatively impacts the ecosystem. Consequently, our health and the living environment suffer negative effects when we consume ground water and crops from polluted soil. To keep the environment clean, it is necessary to monitor soil and sediment.
For analysis of hazardous heavy elements in soil and sediment, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry is used because of its simple sample preparation and short analysis time.
Soil and sediment contain a certain amount of organic material, which cannot be analyzed by XRF. Therefore, conventional matrix corrections, such as the theoretical alpha method, do not work effectively. In XRF analysis of soil and sediment, organic material causes significant error.
This webinar will demonstrate that a unique matrix correction, where the scatter ratio correction and the theoretical alpha correction are combined, can be applied to XRF analysis of heavy elements, including hazardous elements, in soil and sediment.
Presenter: Carmen Kaiser-Brügmann
Born in Salisbury, Zimbabwe, Carmen's passion for science led to a career in analytical chemistry. Initially interested in chemical engineering, she switched to analytical chemistry after an impressive stint in X-ray fluorescence technology.
As an XRF Application Scientist at Rigaku Europe SE, Carmen excelled in customer support and technical solutions, driven by her belief that science shapes the future. She oversaw the installation of seven XRF spectrometers at 19 PPC Cement plants in Africa, improving quality testing.
Carmen achieved ISO 17025 accreditation for XRF spectrometry and sample preparation as pressed powder and fusion, demonstrating her commitment to precision. Her expertise in various analytical techniques made her a valuable asset to the cement industry.
One of her most memorable moments was leading a technical team on a calibration trip to Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, highlighting her dedication to the advancement of science.
With a career spanning more than 19 years, Carmen has left a lasting mark on analytical chemistry and continues to inspire progress.
