What is EPMA?

EPMA stands for Electron Probe Microanalysis (also known as electron microprobe analysis). It is an analytical technique used to non-destructively determine the elemental composition of small volumes of solid materials. A focused beam of high-energy electrons is directed onto the sample, causing the emission of characteristic X-rays that are then analyzed to identify and quantify the elements present. EPMA is widely used in geology, materials science, and forensic science for applications such as mineral identification, analysis of alloys and ceramics, and determining the origin of trace evidence.