Spatial Analysis
Individual assays are fine as far as they go, but sometimes spatial evolution of XRF data is preferable to single samples. This can help answer questions like the use of an archaeological site, or the distribution of nutrients in a field. To do this kind of analysis, we focus on the signal strength, or intensity, of each element. Provided that data is acquired in a systematic way every millimeter, meter, or kilometer, we can plot it together. For example, take this map of phosphorous across 2m X 4m area.
Individual assays are fine as far as they go, but sometimes spatial evolution of XRF data is preferable to single samples. This can help answer questions like the use of an archaeological site, or the distribution of nutrients in a field. To do this kind of analysis, we focus on the signal strength, or intensity, of each element. Provided that data is acquired in a systematic way every millimeter, meter, or kilometer, we can plot it together. For example, take this map of phosphorous across 2m X 4m area.
In this case, we can see that there are describe phosphorous plots in the lower portions of this small area, with less phosphorous available to the north. In this case, the application of phosphorous should be restricted to the top, as it would be wasted below. Alternatively, if you are an archaeologist looking for traces of human activity, the lower half of this archaeological square would be of primary interest.
However, not all elements show the same distribution. Take potassium for example.
However, not all elements show the same distribution. Take potassium for example.
Potassium shows the reverse pattern as phosphorous - it is more plentiful to the north, but there are more deficiencies to the south.
This type of analysis is best if a field is systematically sampled in regular intervals - though we can work with rougher data provided that coordinates are exact. You can submit data by GPS location or physically measured in a grid format (north, east). You can contact us for more information if you have questions.
This type of analysis is best if a field is systematically sampled in regular intervals - though we can work with rougher data provided that coordinates are exact. You can submit data by GPS location or physically measured in a grid format (north, east). You can contact us for more information if you have questions.