What is a common use for XRF technology beyond lead detection?

XRF, or X-ray fluorescence, technology is commonly used in various fields beyond just detecting lead. One significant application is identifying metal alloys. This technique allows for the rapid and non-destructive analysis of materials, enabling the determination of the elemental composition of metals. When an XRF analyzer is applied to a sample, it emits X-rays that excite the atoms in the material, causing them to fluoresce. The resulting emissions can be analyzed to determine the types and amounts of different elements present. This capability is particularly valuable in industries such as manufacturing and recycling, where knowing the exact composition of alloys is essential for quality control and recycling processes.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary uses of XRF technology. For instance, measuring humidity and assessing pH levels are typically addressed with different instruments designed specifically for those environmental measurements, while checking temperature stability relies on thermometers or temperature sensors rather than XRF technology.