The National X-Ray Fluorescence Laboratory is a state-of-the-art facility established and running through the collaboration between the University of Sharjah (UoS) and the American University of Sharjah (AUS).
The Laboratory is a result of a project between the UAE and the Technical Cooperation Department of the IAEA, supported by the Permanent Mission of the UAE to IAEA. The laboratory uses X-Ray fluorescence and other X-ray techniques in the study of cultural heritage and environmental samples.
The on-going project is of high value, as the laboratory is currently a leading regional facility in materials characterization with X-Rays and related techniques.
National Benefits to the UAE
The importance of the laboratory is expressed on both national and regional levels, as it enhances the ability to analyze historical artifacts and manuscripts; establishes the capability to analyze and process environmental samples (e.g. heavy metals) and forensic samples, to characterize and test new materials, and, to set a basic infrastructure for that purpose.
The NXFL is set to have a considerable impact throughout the UAE. It is becoming a hub for human capacity building and training of young nationals on the use and benefits of advanced scientific techniques, as they are applied to cultural heritage and the well being of the environment through the study of pollution and its potential health consequences.
The National X-ray Fluorescence Laboratory (NXFL) was first established in early 2009, through several IAEA grants with the support of Permanent Mission of UAE to IAEA. The first phase of the project was successfully accomplished in 2011, and move forward into its second phase, which is on-going up until 2013.
The Permanent Mission supports the establishment of this lab through coordinating all activities of the related project with the Agency; including coordinating the design of the project activities with the IAEA’s TC department, and the transferring of knowledge and expertise related to the use of the X-Ray Fluorescence Lab, through scientific visits, fellowships and workshops aimed at building necessary Human Resources for the laboratory, and preparing for its beneficial and efficient national use.
In addition to providing valuable service museums, the research and education sector, and the lab will have important applications in the area of forensics, as well as potential support to border and security authorities.
Near term plans include the partnership of the NXFL team with the Police authorities to train students on the use of X-rays in forensics.
Establishment and Progress of the Laboratory
Early work on the laboratory involved the installation of necessary equipment and systems that are used for a wide range of applications: from macro analysis (for a general survey of a wide area), to the inspection of a specific micro area, and etc.
During March 2013, the laboratory's capabilities were bolstered by the addition of a state-of-the-art Bruker D8 powder diffractometer. The addition of the diffractometer and another - soon to be procured - scanning electron microscope with EDS enhancement, was facilitated by the support of a private donation to the University of Sharjah.
These additions have enhanced the laboratory’s value, as the newly acquired laboratory capabilities have attracted the attention of a wide range of local and regional partners. The Permanent Mission is working closely with the Lab team to make facility available to the relevant UAE government entities and organizations.
Future goals would focus on partnership with local industry and enforces the sustainability of the laboratory and its services to support the local sector.
Applications and Impact
Projects on the study of cultural heritage materials are already underway in collaboration with local heritage and antiquities departments in Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the museums in Sharjah and Fujairah.
