X-ray fluorescence and specific gravity

X-ray fluorescence testing was performed at Boral Resources (Taylorsville, GA) by fusing ignited ash with a flux. To remove organics and volatile materials from the sample, samples were ignited in a muffle furnace to 950°C for two hours before infusing with a fusion matrix and testing. Then the samples were exposed to x-rays, and the fluorescence allowed for the measurement of the relative percentage of the inorganic constituents (e.g., calcium, magnesium, iron, and silica). Specific gravity of ash was tested using a helium pycnometer.