Overview
ISO/TS 9516-2:2024 - Iron ores: Determination of various elements by X‑ray fluorescence spectrometry - Part 2: Single element calibration procedure defines a wavelength dispersive X‑ray fluorescence (WDXRF) procedure for determining multiple elements in iron ores. The method is stated to be applicable to iron ores regardless of mineralogical type. This Technical Specification focuses on the single‑element calibration workflow used to generate reliable quantitative XRF results for routine and laboratory determinations.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope & principle: WDXRF method for elemental analysis of iron ores; single element calibration approach.
- Sampling and sample preparation: Requirements for laboratory samples and sample preparation routes, referencing ISO 2596 and ISO 7764 for preparation methods.
- Fused‑disc preparation: Detailed steps for weighing, mixing, fusion, casting, visual inspection, storage and cleaning of platinum ware and discs.
- Instrument settings and measurement: Guidance on analytical lines, XRF generator settings, crystals, collimators, pulse‑height discrimination, counting time and measurement sequence.
- Drift correction & monitor discs: Procedures for preparing and using drift correction monitor discs to maintain measurement stability.
- Calibration & calculations: Instructions to calculate calibration coefficients, the alpha correction coefficient, mass‑ratio corrections (flux/sample and oxidizer/sample), conversion from oxide to element concentrations, and background equivalent concentration (BEC).
- Validation & quality control: Spectrometer precision tests, check analyses, blank tests and flowchart for acceptance of results.
- Normative and informative annexes: Includes flux preparation procedures, specimen preparation variability, theoretical derivations, FP (fundamental parameter) and least‑squares methods for corrections, counting time calculations, and an air‑cooling block for fused discs.
Applications and users
This standard is intended for:
- Analytical and metallurgical laboratories performing elemental analysis of iron ores.
- Mining companies, iron‑ore processors and quality control teams establishing or auditing WDXRF calibration.
- Instrument manufacturers and service providers implementing single‑element calibration routines or software.
- Laboratories involved in trade, specification compliance, or product certification where reproducible elemental results are required.
Practical uses include routine quality control, contract sampling verification, development of calibration sets for WDXRF instruments, and method validation for regulatory or commercial reporting.
Related standards and notes
- References and sample‑prep cross‑references: ISO 2596, ISO 7764 (sample preparation methods cited in the document).
- Annexes cover FP and least‑square methods as alternative/calculation aids.
- Warning: the document notes potential hazards from materials and operations; users must apply appropriate safety controls.
Keywords: ISO/TS 9516-2:2024, iron ores, XRF, WDXRF, single element calibration, fused discs, calibration coefficients, drift correction, sample preparation, laboratory quality control.
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