Quantitative interpretation of X-ray diffraction patterns of mixtures. I. Matrix-flushing method for quantitative multicomponent analysis

TLDR

The paper introduces a matrix‑flushing method for quantitative multicomponent analysis by X‑ray diffraction. The method replaces the calibration‑curve procedure with a matrix‑flushing concept that yields an exact intensity‑concentration relationship free of matrix effects, using a simple working equation and straightforward analytical steps. It is simpler and faster yet as reliable as the conventional internal‑standard approach, as shown by eight illustrative examples and the discovery of an auto‑flushing phenomenon that simplifies binary system analysis.

Abstract

A matrix-flushing method for quantitative multicomponent analysis by X-ray diffraction is reported. It is simpler and faster than, yet as reliable as, the conventional internal-standard method. In this new method, the calibration-curve procedure is shunted; a more fundamental `matrix-flushing' concept is introduced. The matrix-flushing theory gives an exact relationship between intensity and concentration free from matrix effect. Contrary to most theoretical methods the working equation is very simple, no complicated calculations are involved. The matrix-flushing theory and the analytical procedure are presented. Eight illustrative examples are drawn to demonstrate how this theory is applied to multicomponent analysis and amorphous-content determination. A novel `auto-flushing' phenomenon of binary systems was observed which appears to make the analysis of any binary system a simple matter.