A fluorescence spectrophotometer, also called a spectrofluorometer or fluorometer, measures the light emitted by a sample after excitation by specific wavelengths. This tool offers exceptional sensitivity and selectivity, allowing detection of trace analytes down to single‑molecule. XRF is an analytical technique used by many industries, notably the mining, metals, steel, and manufacturing sectors, for non-destructive online analysis and measurement of the elemental composition of materials. Whilst handheld XRF can be used by non-experts, with pre-programmed settings allowing positive materials identification, the detection of impurities in production materials or the screening of food for toxic heavy metals (and more), you may still be curious about what is happening behind the scenes. An X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer is an X-ray instrument that is employed for the routine chemical analysis carried out on sediments, rocks, minerals and fluids. It is a relatively non-destructive technique that works on wavelength-dispersive spectroscopic principles. Some examples include: metal alloys, precious and exotic metals, plastic, soil, ore, ceramic, paint, paper, mineral assay.