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Gold and Nickel Measurements on Phosphor Bronze
The characteristic x-rays involved with gold and nickel measurements on phosphor bronze substrates are shown in Figure 7. Note how the tin in the substrate displaces copper. Since nickel and copper fluoresce so closely, this reduction of copper atoms in the substrate can offset the nickel measurement. Therefore, the XRF instrument must be corrected for this change in count rate from copper by normalization, base correction, or by calibration with nickel foils over the actual phosphor bronze substrate. A cobalt filter or equivalent must be used to lower copper fluorescence so the nickel can be counted.
Figure 7: Displacement of Copper Fluorescence by Tin

Abstract
Accuracy and Precision
Principle of Measurement
Gold and Nickel Measurements on Copper
Gold and Nickel Measurements on Phosphor Bronze
Gold and Nickel Measurements on Kovar and Other Glass-Sealing Alloys
Gold and Nickel Measurements on FR-4 Circuit Board Substrates
Tin-Lead Solder on Copper, FR-4 Circuit Board Substrates, and Kovar
Tin-Lead Solder on Phosphor Bronze
Adjustments for Part Geometry
Measurement Assurance
Conclusion

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