XRF spectrometers are robust elemental composition analysis instruments that are used the world over in industry and research as critical due diligence, positive materials identification, valuation, and regulatory compliance tools. An XRF spectrometer provides simultaneous analysis of a wide range of elements, and can be used as either a qualitative screening tool or a fully quantitative elemental analysis instrument.

In general, analysis with XRF spectrometry is nondestructive, not altering the sample in any way. The only technical exception to this nondestructive property is that some samples need to be prepared for analysis. Whether or not samples need to be prepared (grain size reduced, homogenized, etc.) depends on the analyst’s data quality objectives, as well as the sample’s initial chemical and physical makeup.

The CAIS X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Laboratory operates multiple portable and laboratory based XRF systems. Our commitment to high quality XRF data extends to the development of user specific analytical calibrations for solids, powders, liquids, ash, obsidian, historic copper alloys and ceramics for example, and training in the proper use, calibration and data reporting for pXRF.

 

ANALYTICAL FEES

We would like to continue to provide you the excellent service to which you have become accustomed. Economic shortfalls, increased overhead, and supply chain disruptions are affecting us all, and our rates have not yet caught up with costs. We will be revising our rates in late summer/early fall 2022 and will announce the new rates well in advance. In the meantime, the Center is reallocating resources, which will result in slower turnaround times for the X-ray Analysis Laboratory. Rather than risk a decrease in data quality, we have made the difficult decision to reinstate our minimum order charge and adjust our turnaround times accordingly. Standard turnaround time is now 2 – 8 weeks.

For all external (non-UGA) samples received after May 15, 2022: the minimum charge per invoice is $200, and we are suspending all Rush (expedited) service.

For all UGA samples please contact us directly to inquire about small sample sets and Rush (expedited) service.

If you require a formal quote, we would be happy to provide one if you let us know the sample type, number of samples, type of analysis and sample preparation required, turnaround time, and what elements you need. For training, demos, or large/ongoing projects please contact us. We accept payment by check, credit card, purchase order, or bank wire. UGA clients may also pay using their SpeedType. If you plan to pay by wire, please let us know in advance. A $25 wire fee will be added to your quote and invoice. If you plan to pay by purchase order (PO) and you work at a university or large company you will most likely need a formal quote before you can request a PO, which should be done before submitting samples. Please send us a copy of your PO.

XRF Analytical Services
XRF Analytical Services
Standard Rush (UGA only, please inquire)
Major and Minor Elements by ED-XRF (non-volcanic rocks, ceramics & sediments)$35$52
Obsidian & other volcanic rocks (non‐destructive; Mn, Fe, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb)$20$30
Obsidian & other volcanic rocks (no-destructive student projects; Mn, Fe, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Nb)$10n/a
Obsidian source samples (geologic samples only)no chargen/a
Pigments (qualitative analysis; non–destructive)$25$37
Metals & alloys (quantitative analysis; precious metals, copper alloys, ferrous metals)$35$52
Bromine in plant samples$25$37
Onsite pXRF analyses$1000/dayn/a
Analysis of liquidsContact UsContact Us
Custom calibrations and developmental workContact UsContact Us
Core Scanning
Core Scanning
Standard Rush (UGA only, please inquire)
Core scanning (price per meter; 1-3 mm increments)$900n/a
Core scanning (price per meter; 4-6 mm increments)$700n/a
Core scanning (price per meter; 7-10 mm increments)$500n/a
XRF Sample Preparation
XRF Sample Preparation
Standard
Rush (UGA only, please inquire)
Grinding (rocks and ceramics)$25$37
Grinding (organic materials)$10$15
Loss on ignition$15$25
Pressed pellets (8 g minimum sample)$15$25
Washing dirty samples$5$10
Freeze drying or oven drying$5$10
X-ray Diffraction
X-ray Diffraction
Standard (4-8 weeks)
XRD - bulk analysis$175
XRD - clays$350
Requirements

All new customers must contact the laboratory before mailing samples

There is a MINIMUM CHARGE of $200 for non-USG/Emory projects

There is a MINIMUM CHARGE of $50 for USG/Emory projects

University System of Georgia and Emory University projects receive a 30% discount