Analysis of Soils and Minerals Using X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy

Abstract

This chapter focuses mainly on the basic principles and methods of X-ray absorption near edge structure and extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy of soils, minerals, and mineral-associated (e.g., adsorbed or coprecipitated) chemical species. It focuses on sample preparation, data collection, and data analysis. The principles and terminology used in X-ray absorption spectroscopy are based on the interactions of X-rays with matter. The chapter begins with a description of some of the properties of atoms, X-rays, X-ray scattering, X-ray absorption, and X-ray absorption spectra. It then discusses the properties of the electronic transitions in more detail and outlines the measurement and interpretation of X-ray absorption spectra. X-ray absorption spectroscopy measurements can be performed on solids, gasses, or liquids, including moist or dry soils, mineral suspensions or pastes, and aqueous solutions. The preservation of samples related to soils and minerals can be susceptible to changes in element oxidation state, changes in hydration, and biodegradation.