MAXXIFlux – Lithium Tetraborate and Lithium Metaborate Fluxes

MAXXIFlux fluxes are high-purity lithium tetraborate, lithium metaborate and mixtures thereof supplied pre-fused and ideal for analytical chemistry applications. The high-purity of the fluxes ensures no contaminants are introduced to your samples being analysed which could compromise sensitive measurements. They are available in a range of formulations to suit your specific application.

Applications

MAXXIFlux pre-fused fluxes have been designed for use in:

• X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectrometers – where they are perfect for production of fused beads
• Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) – for sample digestion
• Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers (AAS)
• Other classical analytical techniques

The Fusion Process

Predetermined amounts of sample and flux are mixed together. This can be achieved using an automated weighing/dosing machine like the Dextra for high throughput or Labor Accura for smaller batches. The sample/flux mixtures are then fused at high temperatures, ideally using an automated fusion machine like those from Environmental Express.

• Lithium borate compounds are ideal for dissolving oxides and similar materials.
• Lithium Tetraborate (Li₂B₄O₇ – m.p. 920°C) has an acidic nature and is better suited to basic oxides e.g. CaO
• Lithium Metaborate ((LiBO₂ – m.p. 850°C) has a basic nature and works better with acidic materials e.g. SiO₂

Pre-Fused Fluxes

The advantage of using pre-fused fluxes includes:

• High density, reducing the volume of the flux in the crucibles
• Low loss on ignition (LOI)
• No dust
• Controlled particle size

Flux Additives

Oregon Labware also manufacture a range of flux additives including bromides and iodides. These are also incorporated into some formulations. These additives provide non-wetting properties that aid the removal of fused beads from casting dishes.

Available Formulations