SciAps XRF and LIBS systems coming to Australia

Scientific equipment supplier AXT has teamed up with SciAps, bringing the Boston-based instrumentation company’s handheld XRFs and LIBS devices to Australia. According to AXT, SciAps’ instruments will give field engineers and scientists increased capabilities and allow them to carry out faster analyses on-site, increasing efficiency and reducing the number of samples that need to be brought back to the lab.

SciAps’ latest handheld XRF, the X-series, features X-ray tube and detector technology which result in fast and precise analyses, with count rates said to exceed that of any other system. This means users can measure more samples per shift and increase productivity. Other features include good ergonomics, a light weight and shielded detectors to protect both the instrument and operator.

The company also manufactures handheld LIBS (laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy) systems for alloy sorting. Suitable for all types of alloys, the LIBS is able to analyse aluminium and magnesium alloys as well as elements such as Li, Be, B and C. The Z-series LIBS uses technologies such as argon purge and dual burn, offering good results.

Both instruments use an Android operating system with a vibrant display that will instantly be familiar to smartphone users. This provides simple connectivity to computers and printers via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. They also share batteries and battery chargers, making them good partners for field use and providing the user with both portability and analytical power.

“The SciAps handheld XRF and LIBS complement our existing product ranges in our materials analysis, mining and non-destructive testing portfolios,” said AXT Managing Director Richard Trett. “We see great potential in these instruments and look forward to introducing them to the Australian market and empowering field engineers.”

Pictured: The SciAps handheld LIBS (Z-series) and XRF (X-series).