IODP Expedition 396 Portable X-ray fluorescence (p-XRF)

Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF) is a rapid, non-destructive technique for determining qualitative and quantitative changes in chemical composition. Aboard the JOIDES Resolution, pXRF is used for measuring points on section halves, rock pieces, and sometimes powders. Spots are typically irradiated at multiple conditions to excite and measure a wide range of elements. The peak intensity changes (we do not provide concentrations) are then used to help recognize and define major chemo-stratigraphic units without the need for destructive sampling.