XRF spectrometry offers many advantages over other methods of analysis, for example:

• 'real' total concentrations are obtained for elements in silicates. Acid digestion pre-treatments used with other methods frequently achieve only partial sample dissolution;
• speed and cost effectiveness - rapid turnaround times relative to methods requiring complex sample pre-treatment. Routine analysis results are usually available within 1-2 days. Urgent analysis can be completed within a few hours;
• versatility - the determination of a comprehensive range of elements at concentrations from below 1 mg/kg to 100%, in a wide variety of materials; and
• accuracy and sensitivity - quantitative analytical programs with low detection limits for a large number of elements.

See also: Semiquant multi-element analysis