Abstract: An x-ray fluorescence (XRF) device and a method for using the same to analyze a sample are described. The EMRXG source of the XRF device has a configuration that allows a greater amount of EMRXG to impinge on the sample being analyzed. The x-ray detector of the XRF device has a configuration that allows a greater amount of x-rays emitted by the sample to impinge on the detector. With such a configuration, the size and cost of the x-ray fluorescence device decreases. As well, fewer EMRXG are needed from the EMRXG source because of the greater efficiency and an exempt EMRXG source that is exempt from radioactivity licensing requirements can be used.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods in which one or more elemental taggants that are intrinsically located in an object are detected by x-ray fluorescence analysis under vacuum conditions to identify or verify the object's elemental content for elements with lower atomic numbers. By using x-ray fluorescence analysis, the apparatus and methods of the invention are simple and easy to use, as well as provide detection by a non line-of-sight method to establish the origin of objects, as well as their point of manufacture, authenticity, verification, security, and the presence of impurities. The invention is extremely advantageous because it provides the capability to measure lower atomic number elements in the field with a portable instrument.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods in which one or more elemental taggants that are extrinsically placed in an object are detected by x-ray fluorescence analysis to identify or authenticate the object are described. The taggant is manufactured as part of the object or the taggant is placed into a coating, packaging, label, or otherwise embedded onto the object for the purpose of later verifying the presence or absence of these elements by x-ray fluorescence. The taggant is then analyzed by XRF and the analysis is then converted into a 2D symbol format that can be used in various security and authentication applications. By using x-ray fluorescence analysis, the apparatus and methods of the invention are simple and easy to use, without the limitations experience by current anti-counterfeiting technologies.

Abstract: Secure documents and methods and apparatus for making the same. The documents are made secure using apparatus and methods in which one or more taggants are placed in the paper or ink of the document. The present or absence of the taggant within the document is detected by x-ray fluorescence analysis, thereby identifying or verifying the document.

Abstract: An apparatus and method in which one or more taggants that are intrinsically located—or extrinsically placed—in an article or product, such as carpet. The taggants are detected by x-ray fluorescence analysis to identify or verify the article or its point of manufacture. The taggants are manufactured as part of the article or the taggant is placed into a coating, label, or otherwise embedded within the article for the purpose of later verifying the presence or absence of these elements by x-ray fluorescence, thus determining the unique elemental composition of the taggant within the article.