Question

a) You are performing EDS analysis of your specimen. At a point you notice an unusually low (but non-zero) X-ray count rate. What might be causing this condition?

b) Despite their high conductivity, charging problems are sometimes experienced with metallic samples. What might cause charging problems in metallic specimens?

Answer 1

a) A low X-ray count is generally observed due to incorrect sample geometry.When the sample is tilted incorrectly then the path between the sample and the detector is blocked which leads to an abnormally low X-ray count.

b) In metallic samples electrons  build up due to charging and causes uncontrolled discharge.Most of the time it leads to artefacts problem and excessive deadtime.Hence this buildup of electrons must be avoided.One popular way to avoid this is to recoat the sample with a thicker layer of platinum.

Hope this help!!!!