KIT XRF – FB / Reference Cement

METHODS OF CONTROL AND CALIBRATION XRF with Fuse Bead

The SNL is currently developing different calibration kits for your XRF & XRD with two sets of kits

1. « KIT XRF-FB » permettant de calibrer votre XRF sur une palette de composants ayant une large bande de mesure. Il existe en deux versions :
   • SNL-XRF-FB for the analysis of Cem I and Cem II/A cements
   • SNL-XRF-FB Cem II+ for cement analysis with more than 10% additions.
2. « KIT XRF-composant » permettant de contrôler différents dosages d’un même composant sur une bande large de mesure
   • Chlorine
   • SO3 and Alkalis
   • P205

Description

The XRF Fused Beads Reference Materials “SNL-XRF-FB CEM I” consist of 7 homogenized and stable cement samples that have been rigorously validated through international interlaboratory testing. These samples serve as essential reference materials for ensuring and maintaining the accuracy of X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) calibrations during routine laboratory operations. They enable continuous monitoring and detection of calibration drifts by using recommended control charts

The “SNL-XRF-FB CEMI” kit is specifically calibrated for the analysis of CEM I and CEM II/A cements containing less than 10% of additional constituents. For the characterization of cement with a higher proportion of constituents (10% and above), such as other CEM II types or blended cements, a dedicated kit “SNL-XRF-FB CEM II+” is recommended.

Warning: SNL XRF Fused Bead Reference Materials are not suitable for use with XRF pressed pellet methods; using them in this context can result in inaccurate calibrations and control values due to significant matrix effect differences, ultimately compromising the reliability of analytical results. It is essential to understand that the mineralogy of each produced and purchased material is highly specific. The fused bead method is the only approach that effectively eliminates mineralogical and matrix-related variability, ensuring accurate and consistent XRF calibration. Please refer to the requirements specified by your XRF equipment suppliers for further guidance.

Each of the inter-laboratory campaigns involves more than 150 international cement laboratories, as well as XRF suppliers and some accredited laboratories. The logic of the ISO 5725-2: 2019 “Accuracy (trueness and precision) of measurement methods and results Part 2: Basic method for the determination of repeatability and reproducibility of a standard measurement method” is applied to each step of the elaboration process (excluding Grubbs and Cochran tests replaced by the “interquartile method”).

2- SNL XRF Fused Bead Reference Samples Characteristics

The properties of the seven SNL XRF Fused Bead Reference Cement Samples represent the most accurate estimates of their true values. These reference values are derived from the statistical evaluation of results obtained by all participants in the Round Robin Tests, with outliers excluded, according to robust statistical methods. Each value is accompanied by an estimate of measurement uncertainty, including both the combined standard uncertainty and the expanded uncertainty (typically at a 95% confidence level).

For chemical analysis, it is important to note that the majority of participating laboratories calibrate their instruments using Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) with metrologically traceable certified values. Consequently, the assigned values of the SNL XRF Fused Bead Reference Samples inherit a level of traceability to the International System of Units (SI) through an unbroken metrological chain.

The SNL XRF Fused Bead Reference Samples are developed and certified by the principles and guidelines outlined in ISO Guide 35: Reference Materials — Guidance for Characterization and Assessment of Homogeneity and Stability. Comprehensive characterization has been performed using robust analytical methods across multiple international laboratories. Statistical assessments confirm homogeneity and long-term stability of the samples. The assigned reference values are accompanied by combined and expanded uncertainties, estimated in full compliance with the Guide’s requirements. This rigorous approach ensures that the SNL XRF Fused Bead materials are fit for use as reliable and metrologically traceable reference standards in cement chemical analysis and XRF calibration. 

The Reference Samples provide a significant range for each parameter, as illustrated below.

The SNL XRF Fused Bead Reference Samples have a guaranteed shelf life of at least 10 years when stored in their original, hermetically sealed containers under the recommended temperature and humidity conditions. This long-term stability is supported by statistical analysis. The samples must be stored away from direct sunlight, excessive humidity, and temperature fluctuations. Once the container is opened, it is recommended that the material be consumed promptly or re-sealed in a desiccated environment to avoid alteration due to moisture uptake or airborne contaminants.