Combined Analysis of a Contaminant Using a Compact FTIR and EDX

Importance of the Topic

This work addresses the growing need for rapid, reliable contaminant identification in food and chemical production. Combining inorganic and organic analysis techniques enhances confidence in results and supports strict quality control requirements.

Objectives and Study Overview

The study demonstrates the use of a combined energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDX) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) system, linked by dedicated software, to identify an unknown contaminant found in a food processing line. The aim is to streamline workflows and reduce operator‐dependent interpretation.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Sample Preparation and Mounting

• The contaminant (≈4 mm, white, hard fragment) was secured in the EDXIR-Holder for sequential EDX and FTIR analysis.

Instrumental Setup

• FTIR Measurement: IRSpirit with QATR-S single-reflection ATR accessory (diamond prism), 4 cm⁻¹ resolution, 20 scans, DLATGS detector, square-triangle apodization.
• EDX Measurement: EDX-7000 spectrometer with Rh target, 50 kV, vacuum atmosphere, 1 mm analysis diameter, 100 s integration time.

Software and Database

• EDXIR-Analysis software with a custom library of 485 contaminants (inorganic and organic entries) developed from water supply and food industry samples.

Main Results and Discussion

FTIR Analysis identified a protein‐rich spectrum matching standard protein reference.
EDX Analysis revealed major elements Ca (≈68 wt%) and P (≈28 wt%), with trace Mg, K, S.
Combined software search yielded white bone particle (calcium phosphate plus protein) as top hit (similarity 0.916), confirmed by comparing element profiles, IR spectra, and sample images.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This integrated approach reduces separate data handling steps, minimizes user expertise requirements, and accelerates contaminant identification in QA/QC workflows. It supports more reliable decision-making in food safety, material inspection, and regulatory compliance.

Future Trends and Potential Uses

• Expansion of spectral and elemental libraries for broader contaminant coverage.
• Integration with automated sample changers and robotics for high-throughput screening.
• Application of machine learning algorithms to improve match accuracy and detect novel contaminants.
• Linking multi-modal data with industry 4.0 platforms for real-time monitoring.

Conclusion

The combined EDX-FTIR system, supported by dedicated analysis software, offers a powerful, unified solution for simultaneous inorganic and organic contaminant identification. This method enhances throughput, consistency, and confidence in critical quality control applications.

References

• Application News No. A522A: Contaminant Analysis Using EDXIR-Analysis Software for Combined EDX-FTIR Analysis
• Application News No. A527: Quantifying “Silent Change” Using EDXIR-Analysis Software: EDX-FTIR Contaminant Finder/Material Inspector
• Application News No. A537: Introducing the EDXIR-Holder: Sample Holder/Stocker for Contaminant Measurement