Rigaku launches the Qualana micro spectroscopy device
Rigaku, the global leader in X-ray analysis systems, announced the launch of Qualana, an advanced micro-XRF spectrometer for precise elemental analysis in tiny areas as small as 20 micrometers. This device meets the growing demands of industries that rely on ultra-miniature components, such as electronics, batteries, and advanced materials.
The device’s technical process makes it possible to evaluate elemental composition, film-thickness distribution, and foreign materials on very small samples, a task that is challenging because of the weak X-ray signal resulting from precise guidance and focusing techniques, as well as the irregularity of sample surfaces, which causes the observation point to deviate from the X-ray irradiation point.
🎯 Optical design for precise X-ray targeting
The Qualana device relies on a unique optical system in which the X-ray lens and the sample observation camera are placed directly above the sample in a vertical orientation. This method reduces the likelihood of deviation between the observation location and the irradiation point caused by variations in the sample surface height.
This vertical configuration allows better control of directing and focusing the rays on a precisely defined point, and therefore highly accurate elemental data can be obtained from the required location on the sample, especially when the surfaces are uneven or contain defects.
🔬 Micro-area analysis using a 20 micrometer irradiation spot
The advanced X-ray technology in this device is distinguished by its ability to direct small X-ray beams with a diameter of up to 20 micrometers. This allows fine details inside components to be analyzed, such as small features in electronic devices, as well as the study of foreign materials or discolored areas that are difficult to identify using larger irradiation spots.
This high level of elemental analysis contributes to a better understanding of the manufacturing process of precise components and helps detect early defects or contamination resulting inside materials or devices.
📊 Assessing large areas through wide-range mapping
Despite the device’s ability to inspect very small areas, comprehensive measurements over large areas of up to 200 mm × 200 mm can also be achieved. Users can adjust the irradiation spot size as needed, between high precision for micro-area analysis and greater speed when examining broad regions.
This dual function is important in sectors that require examination of elemental distribution across a wide area, in addition to the ability to detect small foreign particles that may affect product quality.
🔍 Detailed analysis of thin films using the FP method
Qualana integrates the FP Analysis technology that Rigaku has long developed to evaluate the composition and thickness of thin films on samples. Through the Multilayer Film FP function, comprehensive FP models can be configured to suit a wide range of multilayer film types.
This enhances the ability of engineers and scientists to understand thin-film composition more accurately, which is vital for developing new materials and improving manufacturing processes, especially in the electronics and precision devices industries.
🚀 Future prospects and the role of innovation in micro-analysis
The launch of Qualana represents an advanced step in the field of micro-component analysis thanks to the integration of vertical optical technology with the precision motion and analysis stage. According to Dr. Elena Vance from the Tokyo Institute of Technology, this integration represents a qualitative leap in monitoring microscopic components with unprecedented precision.
It is expected that this device will contribute to improving manufacturing quality and reliability by ensuring the utmost reliability of manufactured materials, especially as the complexity of electronic device and power-system components increases.
🏁 Conclusion
In summary of the technical analysis, the Qualana device from Rigaku provides advanced capabilities for elemental analysis at very fine levels while also being able to operate over wide areas at the same time. These capabilities are especially essential for industries that rely on microfabrication technologies for components with intricate complexity and miniature dimensions. The presence of a radically different optical system and improved measurement technologies opens a new horizon for examining material quality and production lines with greater precision and efficiency.
Source: Rigaku Corporation
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