Borehole X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometer (XRFS): User's Manual, Software Description, and Performance Report

Abstract

The X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRFS) is designed to be deployed down a predrilled hole for exploration and elemental analysis of subsurface planetary regolith. The spectrometer excites atoms in the regolith and causes them to emit their characteristic X-rays. These characteristic X-rays produce peaks in the Xray spectrum. By measuring the energy of the X-rays, elements are identified. By measuring the intensity of the peaks, the amount of each element can be determined. A software package operates the spectrometer, acquires the data, and analyzes the spectrum to provide elements and their weight fractions. It also provides a user interface to control the measurements and display the results.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 2007
Accession Number
ADA475892

Entities

People

  • E. Willard-schmoe
  • I. A. Carlberg
  • W. C. Kelliher
  • W. T. Elam

Organizations

  • University of Washington

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Engineered Resilient Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Analyzers
  • Application Software
  • Basic Programming Language
  • Computer Programming
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Data Acquisition
  • Detectors
  • Failure Mode And Effect Analysis
  • Jet Propulsion
  • Magnesium Compounds
  • Measurement
  • Personal Computers
  • Radiation
  • Spectrometers
  • X Rays
  • X-Ray Detectors

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Nuclear and Radiation Engineering.
  • Spectroscopy.