Thermo Fisher Scientific"s Niton XL3 500 Series analyzer represents the state-of-the-art in elemental analysis for geochemical applications. It allows the user to perform rapid, on-the-spot screening for qualitative elemental identification with the simple pull of a trigger.

Site samples are analyzed by placing the instrument directly on the drill cutting or rock face to provide screening results in seconds, while simple sample preparation will yield analytical results in agreement with traditional laboratory methods.

In addition, the analyzer can perform real-time, non-destructive screening of soil, bone, pottery and other materials of interest to geologists, conservators, materials scientists, and archaeologists.

Thermo Fisher's director of global marketing for the Niton Analyzers business unit, Jon Shein, says the ability to assay samples in the field significantly reduces the cost, time, and labor involved in exploration and surveying activities and allows principals to make decisions promptly as information become available.

"Further benefits that accrue from using Niton analyzers include immediate determination of non-visual ore zones and legally defensible data to prove financial, environmental, and social responsibility.

"The Thermo Scientific Niton XL3 500 Series features a 50 kilovolt, 2-watt x-ray tube, the highest power x-ray tube ever offered in a handheld XRF analyzer, as well as advanced electronics that enable a host of new features directly benefiting the customer.

"The instruments provide optimized excitation for elements ranging from chlorine through the transuranic elements. XL3t Series units can also be equipped with optional small-spot sample analysis allowing users to switch between 8mm diameter and 3mm diameter sample measurement areas.

"Further, Niton XL3 Series analyzers offer the first-ever, fully-integrated, environmentally-sealed VIP tilting colour touch-screen displays for easy viewing in all lighting conditions.

"They use third-generation lithium-ion battery packs, providing users with more measurements on each battery charge than any other handheld XRF analyzer." www.thermo.com/niton