The Itrax Multiscanner combines density measurements and XRF multi-element analysis, and is suitable for analysis of wood, speleothem and other small, flat samples. This high capacity instrument scans over the samples with a fine x-ray beam to produce a density image where each pixel has a well defined density value. The XRF scan is performed along a user defined, straight or curved line. The density information is recorded directly into a digital medium, so all work is done through the computer and no use of film, etc. is involved. A sample holder with room for several samples allows for unattended multi sample scanning. Each sample is scanned in a few minutes, and data is displayed on the monitor as the scan proceeds . The Multiscanner utilizes soft x-rays of high intensity, and sample scanning is therefore quick, and data precise. The lateral resolution is high enough to allow for accurate determination of parameters like year ring width and maximum density in wood. The whole analytical procedure from setting parameters to working on the data is computer based.
The XRF allows for analysis of a range of elements from Mg and heavier. The elements that are usually detected in wood include Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, V, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Rb, and Sr. More elements can be detected depending on concentration in the wood, and time for analysis. For other sample types, the elements that are detected depend on their concentration in the sample and on the composition of the bulk.
DendroCut 2003 - Preparing 1mm samples for the Itrax