XRF is the X-ray fluorescence spectrometer. This method is one of the important methods used to determine the elemental composition in an alloy. By XRF method, all elements with atomic number between 9 and 92 can be measured quantitatively. However, elements with an atomic number below 9 cannot be measured by the XRF method.

Principal element oxides, trace elements and transition elements are measured by weight with X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and rare earth elements are analyzed at ppm level.

For companies producing tin cans, it is important to determine the amount of tin coated on the tin. In this measurement process, the most accurate results are obtained by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF).

The most commonly used packaging materials in the food sector are tin containers. The thickness of the tin in these materials is generally between 0,22 and 0,32 mm. If the surface of the tin is coated with tin, the foodstuff contained therein is no longer in contact with the tin (ie, steel). The effectiveness of tin coating depends on several factors. For example, the thickness of the coating, its homogeneity, the coating method applied and the properties of the foodstuff to be placed. The thickness of tin applied is important both in terms of economy and function and in terms of human health.

In the advanced laboratories, tin coating thickness measurements are made for all surfaces in tin cans by XRF method. These measurements are based on standards published by local and foreign organizations. The standard used in this respect is:

• TS 13718 Cans

 

This standard specifies the characteristics and forms of commercially available tin cans made of steel, electroplated tin-coated, coated with a suitable lacquer for foodstuffs.