Application of X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy for Quality Control in Nigerian Cement Manufacturing

X-ray fluorescence spectrometry is a standard analytical technique for real-time elemental composition analysis in cement manufacturing quality control, enabling rapid adjustment of raw mix proportions to meet clinker chemistry targets. This study evaluates the practical application of wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry in the quality control laboratory of a major cement plant in Edo State, South South Nigeria. The study follows the full quality control workflow from raw material quarrying through clinker production to finished cement, documenting X-ray fluorescence measurement protocols, calibration procedures, accuracy verification, and integration with plant process control systems. Thirty production shifts are analyzed, comparing X-ray fluorescence-derived lime saturation factor, silica modulus, and alumina modulus values against reference wet chemistry titration results to validate analytical performance. Measurement uncertainty budgets are constructed following EURACHEM guidelines to characterize total analytical uncertainty at each quality control checkpoint. Results confirm that wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence achieves measurement uncertainties of 0.05 percent for calcium oxide determination, adequate for real-time raw mix control decisions. The study identifies systematic bias in iron oxide determination attributable to matrix effects from high iron laterite raw materials and recommends correction using empirically derived influence coefficient matrices. The professional output includes a customized calibration protocol and standard operating procedure manual tailored to the specific raw material chemistry of the Edo State plant. Keywords: X-ray fluorescence, cement quality control, elemental analysis, Edo State, industrial physics