The most important characteristic of analytical procedure is the limit of detection especially in the analyses of toxic substance in the environment. This concept is used in many fields that may contribute to various controversial definitions and practice for its determination. This work was motivated by the possible use of the X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) available detection system to detect the heavy toxic element present in some imported polyethylene and plastic goods and to verify their conformity with the European Union RoHS compliance. A review of the concept of limits of detection with its experimental determination for XRF spectroscopy was necessary to select the adequate practical calculation method. The results obtained show that the correct and practical approach to determine the limits of detection in XRF spectroscopy should be the calibration curve approach. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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The objective of this research project was to determine the elemental composition of steel products manufactured by the most popular company in the country. The analysis by independent institution will be instructive for the consumers and helpful for the manufacturer company in order to upgrade the quality of its final steel products. The X-ray fluorescence (XRF) technique was used in this work to determine the elemental composition of long and flat steel products manufactured by this local company. The long products analyzed in this research work are some concrete reinforcing bars and wire rods, while the flat products analyzed including hot and cold rolled coils, and zinc galvanized coils. The results of these analyses show that most elemental compositions obtained conform to the values claimed by the company except that for silicon and manganese which exhibit slightly higher value for some long products. Nevertheless, the elemental compositions obtained for flat products conform to the specifications claimed by the company.

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