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X-Ray fluorescence microscopy - XFM

X-Ray fluorescence microscopy - XFM

xfm_poster.jpg

Poster text:

Title: X-Ray Fluorescence Microscopy – XFM

The XFM beamline has astonishing versatility as an investigative and diagnostic tool. It is extraordinarily useful in four broad categories: biology; geology and mining; environmental studies and forensics.

  • In biology, the XFM beamline proves amazingly potent, thanks to its ability to deliver true X-ray images rather than abstract patterns that require additional layers of processing and interpretation. It is particularly useful in providing a true image of bone density and in determining the levels of essential trace metals.

  • In the sphere of geology and mining, the XFM beamline has the ability to analyse rock samples extracted from areas that might hold mineral riches. In a process known as elemental mapping, the beamline can determine simultaneously the presence and qualities of any number of valuable metals. This information is crucial in determining the likely commercial viability and impact of proposed mining developments.

  • With growing community demands for healthy environments, the capability of the XFM beamline to analyse soils and plant matter is becoming increasingly important. Where contamination is suspected, samples of soil or plant material can be analysed by the XFM beamline. Precise readings of various contaminants can be obtained and remedial environmental strategies can be devised.

  • Among a variety of forensic applications, the XFM beamline can see deep within the fabric of an artwork to help determine its history. Intriguingly, the beamline might reveal an earlier artwork that was painted over at a later date.

Image descriptions (five photos along the bottom):

  1. A close-up of a cracked, weathered rock or mineral surface (geology)

  2. A stack of gold bullion bars (mining)

  3. A row of vertebrae/spinal bones (biology — bone density)

  4. A classical/Baroque-style oil painting of a group of people at a table by candlelight (forensics — artwork analysis)

  5. A small green seedling sprouting from a mound of soil (environmental studies)