EDXRF spectrometer ALTRACE

EDXfor the analysis of trace impuritiesfor food analysis

Overview
ALTRACE is an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDX) spectrometer combining optimized optics and Shimadzu's high-speed signal processing to enable direct elemental measurement from ~0.1 ppm to several percent without chemical pretreatment. Using a high-sensitivity 100 W X-ray source, ALTRACE achieves sub-ppm detection for Cd and Pb and supports automated, continuous operation for routine analysis.

Key Features

• Ultra-trace detection (0.1 ppm Cd, Pb): Direct measurement of heavy metals from trace to percent levels without chemical pretreatment.
• High throughput (48 samples per run): Multi-sample changer with exchangeable racks enables continuous, unattended analysis.
• Fast, simple and cost-efficient: Non-destructive results in minutes with low running costs and straightforward sample handling.

Unparalleled Sensitivity
An optimized optical arrangement, a high-power X-ray tube and a high-sensitivity detector combined with Shimadzu's high-speed signal processing increase detection efficiency versus general-purpose EDX systems (e.g., EDX-7200). This improves detection limits for low-concentration aqueous and solid samples and reduces measurement time for automated multi-sample workflows.

Automatic Filter Exchange
Primary X-ray filters remove background and improve signal-to-noise for trace-level analysis. ALTRACE includes 6 primary filter slots (8 filter types including open and attenuator) that are automatically exchanged by software to match measurement conditions.

Filter Table
Filter #1 | 14 to 38 keV | Mo, Rh, Pd, Ag, Cd, Sn, Sb
Filter #2 | 2 to 4 keV | S, Cl
Filter #3 | 5 to 10 keV | Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni
Filter #4 | 9 to 10 keV | Hg
Filter #5 | 9 to 14 keV | As, Br, Zr, Hg, Pb, Bi
Filter #6 | 4 to 5 keV | Ti, V

Sample Handling and Measurement
ALTRACE accepts solids, powders and liquids placed in a dedicated sample cell and supported by an appropriate X-ray film (polypropylene commonly used for powders and aqueous solutions; alternative films for organic solvents). EDX is non-destructive, enabling the same sample to be used for screening and precision analysis. The system supports qualitative and quantitative analysis via the fundamental-parameter (FP) method and calibration-curve-based quantitation without repeated recalibration for each run.

High Throughput and Operation Flexibility
The main body (710 mm wide) houses a multi-sample changer with a tray-drawer system that allows safe sample replacement without accessing the instrument interior. Analysis can be paused, new samples added and schedules adjusted during a run for increased workflow flexibility.

Software and Integration
Integration with LabSolutions EDX enables streamlined routine analysis, data handling and automation of workflows, including sample scheduling and filter management.

Application Highlights

• Screening and quantitative analysis of hazardous heavy metals in soils, foods and additives.
• Quantitative analysis of lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) in cosmetic raw material powders.
• General-purpose elemental screening for environmental, food safety and materials laboratories.

Technical Specifications

• Model name: ALTRACE
• Detection capability: Down to 0.1 ppm for Cd and Pb (with high-sensitivity 100 W source)
• Measurement range: ~0.1 ppm to several percent (direct measurement without pretreatment)
• Throughput: Up to 48 samples per run (multi-sample changer)
• X-ray source power: High-sensitivity 100 W source
• Filter system: 6 primary filter slots (8 filter types including open and attenuator); automatic exchange
• Sample types: Solids, powders, liquids (dedicated sample cell with X-ray film)
• Operation flexibility: Tray-drawer sample replacement, pause and reassign analysis during runs
• Body width: 710 mm (main body with multi-sample changer)
• Analysis methods: Fundamental-parameter (FP) method and calibration-curve-based quantitative analysis
• Integration: Compatible with LabSolutions EDX for data handling and automation