 ICDD X-ray Fluorescence Course
X-ray Fluorescence Course
Spring 2026
Let Our Team of Experts Help You Take Your Skills to the Next Level
During the past five decades, the use of X-ray analytical methods has increased in the areas of materials characterization and phase identification. The wide range of applicability of the X-ray fluorescence method has made it a technique employed in thousands of laboratories all over the world.
I was delighted to find the scope of the course more comprehensive than I expected.
Over the years, many techniques and procedures have been developed that greatly enhance the versatility of the method. The purpose of the X-ray course is to combine theoretical and practical applications of X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. The course is presented in a week-long session and is directed to both relative newcomers in the field and to more experienced users wishing to broaden their understanding of fundamental concepts and established procedures. The major emphases are the acquisition of reliable experimental data and qualitative phase identification using manual search techniques, and computer-based methods of qualitative and quantitative phase analysis.
The format of the course is a combination of morning lectures and afternoon recitations and workshops. Ample opportunity for individual student-faculty interaction exists throughout the week, including small recitation and workshop groups and a session where students can discuss their applications and problems with the entire faculty.
Lectures
- Fundamentals of X-ray Physics
- WDX and EDX X-ray spectrometry instrumentation
- Qualitative, semi-quantitative, and standardless analysis
- Introduction to quantitative analysis
- Types and sources of error
- Precision and accuracy
- Calibration strategy
- Drift, line and interelement correction application
- Fundamental parameters
- Maintaining instrument integrity
- Specimen preparation
Workshops
- XRF instrumentation, components, scope, and comparison using live and disabled WDX and EDX instrumentation.
- Selection of parameters for operation
- Demonstration of personal computer exercises in qualitative, semi-quantitative, and standardless WDX and EDX analysis
- Demonstration of personal computer exercises employing polynomial regression, line overlap, empirical and fundamental parameter corrections during calibration
- Specimen preparation lecture and demonstration of the use of mixers, grinders, presses, fusion apparatus, etcetera
- Discussion of problems encountered by participants
When & Where
Spring 2026
Convince Your Boss!
ICDD Headquarters
12 Campus Boulevard
Newtown Square, PA 19073-3273 USA
Phone: (610) 325-9814
If you have any questions, please contact education@icdd.comÂ
What's Included
The registration fee for this course includes:
- Lecture, workshop, and lab materials
- Catered lunch Monday through Thursday
- Coffee and snack breaks
Schedule
Classes are held:
- Monday: 8:30 am to 6:00 pm
- Tuesday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
- Wednesday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
- Thursday: 8:30 am to 5:45 pm
- Friday: 8:30 am to 12:00 pm
Faculty
The course faculty is selected from academic, industrial and government institutions under the direction of ICDD.
- Larry Arias
- Dr. Meredith M. Daniel-Prowse
- Dr. Andy Drews
- Dr. Julia Sedlmair
- Eric Smith
Tuition Waiver Opportunities
ICDD offers a limited number of tuition waivers for the XRF clinic. Faculty members and graduate students are encouraged to apply. If you are currently developing a program in X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), and are interested in incorporating those topics into an established course, a tuition waiver can provide you with the opportunity to learn the principles and practices from some of the experts in the field.
Get more information and apply here.
Host Hotel
The Hilton Garden Inn Newtown Square is the host hotel for the ICDD courses. Accommodations booked within our room block will include daily breakfast and round trip transportation to ICDD. Please be sure to use the reservation link for your particular course. Visit our Host Hotel webpage for more information.
Transfer, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
ICDD must guarantee payment for meals and materials in advance. You will receive a 50% refund of the paid registration fee if your written cancellation is received at ICDD 20 business days prior to the start of the class. With less notice, a colleague may take your place, or the course materials will be mailed to you, but no refund will be given.
Please note:Â A minimum of 10 registrants per course is required, otherwise the course will be cancelled and your registration fee will be refunded. You will be notified of a course cancellation no later than two weeks prior to the start of the course.
