Sensors & Electronics
Chemical Sensors
Small Bore Elemental Analysis Probe (4)

Problem: Determine heavy element content in soils using a sensor probe that can be deployed in a small borehole.
Project Activity Scope (from Technical Overview Chart): Devices through Instruments
PNNL Solution:
- Determined that X-ray fluorescence offers suitable measurement capability
- Teamed with commercial instrument company to develop small bore probe
- Led development of small bore XRF probe including electronics design
- Successfully demonstrated probe for DOE landfill characterization
Capabilities Employed to Meet Client Needs: Sensor development [designed high-resolution Si(Li) detector with small bore (1.25-inch diameter) cryostat]; electronics design [developed on-board pulse processing electronics]; systems engineering [developed data acquisition system with software]; mechanical design for probe & instrument packaging.
Selected Links to Related Information:
- Similar Application Examples (Same or Different Technology)
Contact: Tim Peters