XRF spectrometry services

The Canadian Conservation Institute (CCI) works with heritage institutions to ensure that they have access to the analysis tools needed to study their collections. A portable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer is a key piece of analytical equipment, which can determine elemental composition non-destructively. Common uses within the heritage context include:

• analysis to determine the presence of inorganic toxic pesticide residues
• analysis of metal composition
• analysis of glass composition
• analysis of pigments and inks
• analysis of archaeological objects

Our team of scientists provide two services related to XRF spectrometry:

1. Full XRF spectrometry service: This service consists of an in-person visit from one of our conservation scientists who will help you set up your analyses for up to three days. This service also includes training to become a certified XRF spectrometer operator, if requested, and a report on the analyses conducted during the site visit.

You also have the option of borrowing a portable XRF spectrometer for up to one month, provided that a certified XRF spectrometer operator is present at your institution. If you choose this option, you are responsible for shipping the XRF spectrometer back to CCI.

The cost of this service is CAN$1000 for eligible clients.

2. XRF spectrometer loan service: This service consists of a loan of up to one month and is available to certified XRF spectrometer operators who are familiar with the spectrometers used at CCI. This service does not include a site visit from a CCI scientist. It is free of charge for eligible clients, but it does not include shipping costs.

Notes:

• CCI’s XRF spectrometers can only be used on the institution or cultural centre’s own heritage collection for purposes stated in the scope of the project and cannot be used as part of any revenue-generating service. XRF spectrometers must be used in accordance with Canadian law and only by Natural Resources Canada-certified operators with an up-to-date certification.
• Indigenous communities in Canada are diverse and have customs and protocols that dictate the care and handling of their cultural belongings and ancestors. The Government of Canada has specific obligations towards Indigenous peoples under the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act. CCI fully recognizes them as rights holders who can define how their belongings and ancestors should be cared for. In support of Indigenous peoples’ stewardship of their cultural heritage, CCI respects Indigenous protocols and methods and seeks to strengthen its partnerships with Indigenous peoples, including in the context of scientific services.
• Given the high demand for these services, we may not be able to accommodate every request. In any given year, we may encourage certain client groups to apply to ensure an equitable service distribution. These details would be communicated before the opening of the application period.
• In some instances, we may determine that an XRF spectrometry service may not address your scientific concerns. In these cases, we may suggest a virtual meeting to gain a better understanding of your scientific concerns and suggest either another scientific service offered by CCI or other options. This consultation comes at no cost.
• For assistance on specific scientific questions related to your collections that require more in-depth analyses, please apply for artifact analysis and examination.

Who can apply?

Our primary clients include museums, archives, libraries and cultural centres, whose principal role is to acquire, care for, conserve and exhibit (for purposes of study, education and enjoyment) permanent heritage collections, while also communicating about and conducting research on them.

How to apply

To apply for the full XRF spectrometry service, complete the form On-site scientific services request.

To apply for the XRF spectrometer loan service, please complete the form Portable XRF spectrometer loan request. If you wish to minimize shipping costs, consider coordinating your loan with another institution in your area. Please note that each institution must still submit a separate application form.

Fees

For more information on fees, please consult the following:

• Fees for eligible client categories
• Fee schedule

Application period

This year, the application period will run for one month, from October 20 to November 20, 2025. Starting in 2026, the application period will run between July 15 and October 15. If your request is time-sensitive, please contact CCI.

Response to requests

• CCI will respond to requests within three weeks of receipt to confirm that the application is complete and that the request is eligible for consideration.
• CCI will inform all applicants of the results of our selection by December 15.
• CCI will inform clients whose requests have been accepted of the terms, conditions and fees (if any) that apply.
• Services are delivered to the selected institutions between February and October of the following calendar year.

Client satisfaction standard

Clients who receive services from CCI will receive an evaluation questionnaire based on the following 12 quality parameters:

• Application process
• Acknowledgement of the initial request
• Explanation of fees
• Explanation of service to be provided
• Communication during the project
• Promptness of service
• Quality of service
• Usefulness of service
• Quality of written material provided (report)
• Quality of instruction material provided (user guides)
• Dealings with staff (friendly, courteous and helpful)
• Overall value

Contact us

For questions or assistance in preparing your application, please contact CCI.

Guides and help

• Assessment of service requests
• Terms and conditions (1 to 13)
• Policy on cost recovery

Related services and information

• Scientific services