Range-by-Range Calculations of Absorption Coefficients as a Method for Increasing the Accuracy of Electron Probe Microanalysis

To increase the accuracy of electron probe microanalysis, it was proposed to calculate absorption coefficients range-by-range, with selecting an optimum calculation method for each absorption range. The approach was implemented in the analysis of rock-forming minerals using the PAP correction method. Calculations of absorption coefficients in the region below the K-edge were performed using the PAP method and, in K–L₁ range, by the Heinrich method with certain refinements. A series of natural minerals with high iron (and zinc) contents were used for refinement. Practical tests confirmed the expediency and reliability of the range-by-range calculation of absorption coefficients.