Abstract: This invention relates to a double open-ended sample holder cell for x-ray spectroscopic analysis including a cell (58) for containing the sample, a first ring (52) mounted to the cell at one open face (48) securing an analytic film (56) to the cell, a second ring (50) mounted to the cell securing a microporous or solid film (54) at the other open face (46); the second ring including a continuous ring wall extending outwardly from the rim o the cell; the continuous ring wall and the microporous film defining a compartment adjoining the second open face that contains any sample material that passes or breaks through the microporous or solid film. A support bar (92) connected to the top securing ring provides a grip for a tool used in the process of remotely raising or lowering the sample holder relative to placement into or removal from an x-ray cassette.

Abstract: A double open-ended sample holder for sample material for X-ray spectroscopic analysis including a cylindrical body containing the sample material and having top and bottom open faces. An analytic film is mounted tautly across the lower face, and a microporous film positioned across the upper face cell passes gases generated by X-rays striking the sample material but does not pass harmful particle materials contained in the cell. Upper and lower rings mounted to the cylindrical body secure the lower and upper films to the body. A handling support connected to the top securing ring provides a grip for a tool used in the process of remotely raising or lowering the sample holder relative to placement into or removal from an X-ray cassette. The handling support is spaced from the microporous film so that gases generated in the cell are allowed to escape across the microporous film at a maximum rate of evacuation.

Abstract: A sample holder for positioning and locking film for sample materials for spectroscopic analysis comprising a holder body having a cylindrical outer wall forming a cell adapted to contain the sample material and a ring member for biasedly pressing the film skirt against the cylindrical outer wall of the holder body in a first locking position. A locking bead around the ring member presses the film skirt into a locking groove around the cylindrical wall of the holder body in a second locking position. An optional third locking position is attained by a second locking bead around the biasable ring member pressing the film skirt into a second locking groove around the holder body. A method of assembling the film with the holder body and the ring member is also described.

Abstract: A method of positioning a sample for X-Ray spectroanalysis at a spectroscopic machine that includes the steps of determining the point of primary focus of an X-Ray beam upon a master grid and then placing the data upon a mating assembly grid that is positioned in an assembly well into which is positioned a grid support that carries the assembly grid with the primary focus point. Further steps include assembling a sample holder with one sheet of film in the assembly well. An interlocking member that locks the sample holder into interlocking relationship with both the grid support and the sample holder is then inserted into the well. The sample is then aligned upon the point of primary focus upon the film in the fixed sample holder. The sample holder is removed from engagement with the interlocking member and transferred to the sample holder support plate at the spectroscopic machine where the sample is aligned with the primary focus.

Abstract: A system and a method for mounting a thin transparent film across the open face of a sample holder for X-ray spectroscopic fluorescence analysis. The system includes a flexible, tapered cylindrical ring member snap-mounted over a matching tapered portion of an annular wall of the holder body which presses a first portion of the skirt of the film against the tapered annular wall. An outer cylindrical closure sleeve snap-mounted to the annular wall presses additional portions of the film skirt against the annular wall. A rim flange of the closure sleeve holds the ring member in position. An optional O-ring snap-mounted to the annular wall of the holder body presses another portion of the film skirt to the holder body. The method includes sliding the ring member over and snap-mounting it to the holder body followed by passing the closure sleeve over the ring member and snap-mounting it to the holder body so as to position and tauten the film in stages.

Abstract: A disposable sample holder with a handling support for X-ray spectroscopic analysis of harmless or noxious powders, slurries, liquids, or gases, which includes a handling support for safe handling of the sample holder by either local or remote means. The handling support includes a stem extending from the surface of a cap or outer cover for the holder and a gripping member surmounting the stem. The handling support is designed for local tool handling by an operator or for remote handling by a controlled robot mechanism. Optionally, the handling support is provided with a septum through which a liquid, volatile, or gaseous sample material may be loaded into a closed sample holder by insertion of a hypodermic needle.