Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy

What Does Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy Mean?

Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXA, EDS, XEDS or EDXS) is used as an analytical technique to perform an elemental analysis and understand the chemical characteristics of a test sample.

Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy makes use of the x-ray portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is emitted by solid samples when they are bombarded by a focused electron beams. Every element from atomic number 4 through 92 can be identified using this technique, although not all methods are appropriate for the lighter elements.

Energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy may also be known as energy dispersive X-ray analysis.

Corrosionpedia Explains Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy

There are four major components of an energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy system:

• X-ray or electron beam (excitation source)
• Pulse processor
• X-ray detector
• Analyzer

Using this technique, any excess electron energy migrates to a shell to fill in new holes in excess of what a single X-ray can emit. The X-ray intensities are measured by counting the photons. Precise measurements are possible with this method.