Quantitative chemical analyses of rocks with X-ray fluorescence analyzer: (1) Major elements

Abstract

Analytical procedures for major elements in rocks (Si, Ti, Al, Fe, Mn, Mg, Ca, Na, K, P), using a newly installed X-ray fluorescence analyzer (RIGAKURIX3000) at the National Institute of Polar Research, are summarized. The calibration curve method, the matrix correction method, and the fundamental parameter method are compared with respect to accuracy. By combining these methods, rocks with normal compositions, excluding ultramafic rocks, carbonate rocks and extremely quartz-rich rocks, can be quantitatively analyzed accurately.