Using this mode, calibration curves can be constructed using materials of known composition. The mode returns a value in %composition for the element being assayed, based on the empirical correlation. In the example below, a lead-tin curve, prepared from standards, was used to analyze an unknown lead-tin alloy for % lead content. Empirical mode can be set up for either heavy (e.g., alloys) or light (e.g., soil) matrices.
Figure 6. Analysis of a mold made of a tin-lead alloy using an empirical method