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Developers and manufacturers of scientific equipment have been exploiting the unique mechanical characteristics of platinum (Pt) for over 200 years, because of its high melting point, ductility, malleability, and low reactivity. As a result, platinum crucibles have become fundamentally important components for various chemical research applications in laboratory environments.

The applications of platinum crucibles range from XRF sample preparation to ash testing, and each sector requires equipment with highly specialized mechanical properties and differing volumetric dimensions. Pure platinum and its alloys are applied to meet these varying requirements, with a choice of materials available from XRF Scientific, including:

• Pure platinum crucibles, with a melting point...

Lithium metaborate (LiBO₂) is a chemical compound used in borate fusion for x-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, and in fusion flux mixtures for other sample preparation methods.

It is available from XRF Scientific as lithium metaborate 100%, which is available in both granular and beaded physical structures, both of which have a high reactivity with acidic samples and a melting point of 845°C, accounting for its low volatility. It, therefore, has a high suitability to wet chemistry applications.

We also supply fusion flux chemicals comprised of lithium metaborate and lithium tetraborate (Li₂B₄O₇), as well as various oxidizing additives, for a range of XRF sample preparation applications.

This article will explore pre-prepa...

Lithium Tetraborate (also known as lithium borate) is the lithium salt of boric acid, a weak, monobasic Lewis acid of boron. The chemical compound is often used in spectrometry as a fusion flux for sample preparation. Samples prepared using a lithium tetraborate fusion flux are highly accurate, and materials such as glass, cement, steel, nickel, and copper often use this method.

Lithium Tetraborate Fusion Flux Considerations 

When using a fusion flux for sample preparation, there are specific considerations that must be made to ensure the best sample. The flux must be of a high quality, with little to no impurities, and for successful mixing, it must have a physical structure that is similar to the sample.

The flux has to be pre-fused to ensure th...