Analytical performance of XRF in the determination of lanthanides from alluvial sands

Petrosani University, Environmental Engineering and Geology Department, 332006 Institutului Str. 20, Petrosani, Romania

^* Corresponding author: eugen_traista@yahoo.com

Abstract

The determination of lanthanide concentrations in alluvial materials, such as sands, presents specific analytical challenges due to the heterogeneous nature of the samples, the presence of fine mineral phases, and the typically low concentrations of Rare Earth Elements (REEs). Lanthanides are critical components in various high-tech applications, and their geochemical behavior in sedimentary environments is of particular interest for both resource assessment and environmental studies. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry is increasingly used for REE analysis because of its rapid, non-destructive capabilities and minimal sample preparation requirements. This study investigates the effectiveness of XRF in quantifying lanthanides in alluvial sands. Experimental results are analyzed in terms of accuracy, precision, and reproducibility, with attention to sample homogenization, grain size distribution, and calibration protocols. The findings reveal both the potential and the limitations of the XRF method in such contexts, and suggest methodological improvements to enhance detection reliability in sedimentary matrices.