Calibration of XRF data on silicate rocks using chemicals as in-house standards

X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is an accurate, rapid spectroscopic technique for chemical element determinations on rock samples. The aim of this research was to evaluate a calibration method based on the use of suitable mixtures of chemicals. X-ray fluorescence analysis of major elements (Na, Mg, Al, Si, K, Ca, Fe) was carried out using sample-lithium borate fusion mixtures (with a 1:9 sample/borate dilution). The accuracy of the proposed calibration method was tested on twenty-four international rock standards. Results are in good or excellent agreement with the literature recommended value