A Survey of X-Ray Analyzers as Applied in the Cement Industry

X-rays have been in use in the cement industry in the United States for analytical applications since about 1953. In recent years, the applications have expanded from laboratory analysis into automated process control. Present applications and some of the problems associated with them are discussed. Sample preparation and data handling are emphasized. X-ray is well established in the industry, but recent work has attracted attention to neutron activation analysis as a possible future alternative to X-ray for some elements of interest.