Testing is performed using a Rigaku NEX DE XRF laboratory-grade desktop spectrometer; however, results are not a certified, accredited, or otherwise official analysis. This service is offered to give individuals and companies more direct, convenient access to laboratory-grade equipment that may not be widely available.
ROWOW LLC HAS NO AFFILIATION OR ENDORSEMENT BY RIGAKU.
Element range and requested priorities: The instrument is capable of analyzing elements from Sodium (Na) through Uranium (U). Because method settings and reporting can affect accuracy and relevance, the purchaser must provide an intended list (or group) of elements to prioritize for analysis.
Sample containment and size limits: Samples are contained using SC-3332 sample cup holders, which hold up to 10 mL of material. For best accuracy, a minimum of 7 mL is recommended. The instrument chamber can accommodate items up to approximately 11 in x 11 in wide and 3.5 in high. Note that the detector’s effective measurement area is offset and is approximately 4 in x 4 in from the corner. If you intend to test larger objects, confirm that (1) the item will fit inside the chamber and (2) the specific area to be analyzed can be positioned within the detector’s measurement window. Refer to the provided images for additional guidance.
What you will receive: Results are typically provided as an PDF report with a list of detected elements and estimated composition (as applicable). Results apply only to the submitted sample and the specific area/spot tested.
Sample labeling and documentation required: Each sample must be clearly labeled with a sample ID, and include a brief material description, and the elements to prioritize. The shipment must also include hazardous material information (as applicable), including any required declarations or SDS documentation when relevant.
Important limitations (XRF method constraints): XRF has inherent limitations and may produce inaccurate or misleading results depending on material type, geometry, surface condition, and testing conditions. It is the purchaser’s responsibility to understand XRF capabilities, constraints, and potential error sources. Some elements are difficult to distinguish due to spectral peak overlap; for example, lead and iridium can interfere with one another. If lead is present in the sample, any reported iridium reading should be considered unreliable and disregarded.
Additional common limitations include:
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Surface sensitivity: Coatings, plating, oxidation, dirt, oil, paint, tape residue, or surface treatments can dominate readings.
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Matrix and inhomogeneity effects: Mixed, layered, or non-uniform materials may vary significantly across locations; results reflect only the tested spot.
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Geometry and positioning: Irregular shapes, gaps, curvature, and inconsistent positioning can affect results.
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Light-element performance: While the instrument can analyze Na to U, accuracy for lighter elements can be more sensitive to sample condition and setup than heavier elements.
Sample preparation: Meaningful XRF results depend heavily on proper sample preparation. The purchaser is solely responsible for determining and completing any necessary preparation steps. This service is limited to loading the submitted sample into the instrument and running the measurement; no additional preparation, processing, or laboratory work is included.
Retest policy: The purchaser is responsible for ensuring that sufficient material is shipped and that the sample is properly prepared for analysis. If re-testing is requested or required due to insufficient quantity, poor preparation, contamination, or sample condition, additional fees may apply. Any reruns due to sample-related issues are the purchaser’s responsibility.
Sample holding period and disposal: Samples are held for 7 days after testing is completed. If a return shipping label is not provided within that period, the sample may be disposed of and a disposal fee will be charged.
Turnaround times: We aim for same-day or 2-business-day turnaround in many cases, but turnaround time is not guaranteed. Service is performed on a first-come, first-served basis depending on demand and availability. For current turnaround expectations, please email info@rowow.net prior to shipping.
Shipping and legal liability disclaimer
The purchaser is solely responsible for arranging shipment and return of the sample and for complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and carrier requirements. The purchaser represents and warrants that no hazardous, restricted, prohibited, or illegal materials are submitted or transported, and that all labeling, declarations, and documentation provided are complete and accurate. We reserve the right to refuse, return, or dispose of any sample that appears unsafe, leaking, improperly packaged, inadequately labeled, or non-compliant.
XRF results are provided “as-is” for informational purposes only and must not be relied upon as a certified, regulatory, safety, medical, environmental, or compliance determination. The purchaser assumes all risks related to sample submission, preparation, handling, shipment, and the use or interpretation of any results, including decisions made based on those results.
To the fullest extent permitted by law, the service provider disclaims all warranties (express or implied) and is not liable for any improper shipping, legal or regulatory violations, carrier refusal, loss, theft, delay, damage, contamination, or disposal. To the fullest extent permitted by law, the service provider is not liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages (including lost profits or business interruption) arising from the service, shipment, or results. The service provider’s total liability, if any, shall not exceed the amount paid for the service giving rise to the claim. The purchaser agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the service provider from any claims, liabilities, damages, penalties, costs, or expenses arising from the purchaser’s sample contents, packaging, labeling, shipment, misrepresentation, non-compliance, or use of results.
