Quantitative multi-element analysis of denitration ceramics by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry

Abstract

A procedure for the determination of C, Na, Mg, Al, Si, S, K, Ca, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Zr, Mo, Sb, La, Tl, Pb, and Th based on two X-ray fluorescence (XRF) methods and combined with instrumental neutron activation analysis and infrared combustion analysis was developed to give quantitative analytical information on a large number of ceramic catalyst samples used for the denitration of flue gas from a coal-fired power plant. A special sample preparation method for small amounts (20 mg) of powder was used for XRF analysis. Two types of synthetic calibration standards were prepared: (1) single-element standards with an Fe₂O₃ matrix for the minor elements and limited concentration ranges (nine elements) and (2) multi-element standards with simulated matrices for the major elements and large concentration ranges (ten elements). The quantitative evaluation of minor elements was performed with a linear calibration graph. Major elements were determined using the so-called fundamental parameters program.