On July 3, SII NanoTechnology Inc. (SIINT) will release the SEA1200VX Element Monitor, an energy-dispersive, highly sensitive fluorescent X-ray Analyzer that does not require liquid nitrogen. This new system incorporates a newly developed X-ray detector, featuring improved sensitivity and resolution, as well as its wide range of application field.

Under the EU's WEEE and RoHS directives on electrical and electronic equipment and the ELV directive on scrap cars that regulate the use of hazardous substances, there is increased demand for an energy-dispersive fluorescent X-ray analyzer because of its nondestructive method, its simplicity of measurement, and its sensitivity. There is also greater demand for more sophisticated systems due to the increasing complexity of samples to be measured and the need to measure smaller trace components and a greater diversity of expertise among operators.

SII NanoTechnology has developed the SEA1200VX fluorescent X-ray analyzer featuring improved sensitivity and resolution, which can be used in a greater variety of applications. The SEA1200VX is equipped with a new fluorescent X-ray detector, the Vortex, a unique device that has a high level of sensitivity, high resolution and a high count rate (capable of counting a large quantity of X-rays). Thanks to the substantially improved sensitivity of the SEA1200VX, it is possible to significantly reduce the time needed to measure a sample with a complex structure. Since it is possible to conduct measurements in a vacuum, light elements can also be measured, and it is possible to conduct component analysis of various materials such as metals, minerals, glass and resin. Moreover, operators of all skill levels can use the system. Different modes of operation can be selected, ranging from measurement menus for novices to complex modes that make the most of the function of the system. Therefore, the system is suitable for a wide range of applications from inspecting materials to general analysis.

Total shipments of SII NanoTechnology fluorescent X-ray equipments have exceeded 6,000 units and the company intends to expand the range of application of fluorescent X-ray analysis as well as meet the compliance requirements for controlling hazardous substances through the release of the high-performing SEA1200VX.

Main features of the SEA1200VX

1. High Resolution
The resolution of the SEA1200VX is superior to that of conventional systems that require liquid nitrogen, and the system is capable of conducting measurements in a vacuum, enabling it to perform qualitative and quantitative analyses of a wide variety of materials such as metals, minerals, glass and resin. The system offers optimal performance in analysis applications in divisions that specialize in analysis as well as in material analysis, quality control and assessment measurements.

2. High Sensitivity
The newly developed, high count rate detector, the Vortex, used in conjunction with a filter, enables materials such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) resins and metals to be measured and analyzed with a high degree of sensitivity. The minimum detection limit has been reduced to between one-half and one-fifth that of the company�fs conventional model that requires liquid nitrogen. The Vortex detector can detect X-rays at least 50 times stronger than the conventional model. By combining with the precision control software that controls precision (variation) of element concentration and conduct the measurement in the optimal time, measuring time is greatly reduced.
For example, the measuring time of lead (Pb) in PVC resin, which is regulated by the RoHS directive, can be reduced to one-thirtieth of the conventional models, and to one-tenth for lead (Pb) or cadmium (Cd) in metals.

3. Liquid Nitrogen Free
The unit is equipped with a detector that does not require liquid nitrogen, thereby eliminating the need for a cumbersome maintenance of liquid nitrogen. Since the start-up time is just a few minutes, it is possible to conduct quick and reliable measurement.

4. Light Element Analysis
Since the SEA1200VX can conduct measurements in a vacuum, it is possible to conduct measurements on the elements from sodium to uranium. This property of the SEA1200VX also improves the effectiveness of its measurements on nonferrous metals, minerals, glass, ceramics, resins, paints, soil, foods and such like.

5. Ease of Use, from Novices to Professionals
This system is easy to use and can be operated by novices while also catering to the needs of professional operators in terms of the flexibility of its settings. When measuring a hazardous metal subject to the RoHS directive, this unit is easy to operate since it offers a menu that allows the shortest measurement time while guaranteeing essential reliability. The measured data is automatically stored in a prescribed location, enabling a detailed report to be output at any time. On the other hand, switching to the professional operator mode enables free selection of the measurement conditions and setting of the detector, to best match the sample. In this way, analyzing samples in fields where conventional energy dispersive fluorescent X-ray analyzer could not be used has become a practical reality.

Target Price
10,000,000 yen (tax excluded)

Sales Target
300 units

Sales Start Date
July 3, 2006

SEA1200VX