MapEX: A tool for X-ray map analysis

MapEX is an open-source Python toolkit for analysing multi-channel X-ray maps acquired through diverse analytical platforms, including electron probe microanalysis with wavelength-dispersive spectroscopy (EPMA-WDS), scanning and transmission electron microscopy with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/TEM-EDS), micro-X-ray fluorescence (μ-XRF), and synchrotron-based mapping techniques. The software reads native CSV or text file exports, records key acquisition metadata, and packages data in a HDF5 structure that supports fast access and fully reproducible workflows. Using a linear fit, a calibration panel implements region-of-interest regressions from map intensity to composition. It reports the fitted equation, coefficient of determination, and root-mean-square error, with pointwise inclusion or exclusion of standards. For phase classification, principal-component features are combined with unsupervised clustering methods to classify phases directly from elemental distributions; parameters can be tuned and results updated interactively. An interactive interface links elemental maps, correlation plots, and phase classification, with linked selection so that pixels chosen in plot space are highlighted across all images and vice versa. Line-profile tools extract compositional trends along user-defined paths, enabling targeted inspection of grain boundaries, reaction fronts, and alteration rims. By emphasising open formats, explicit assumptions, and pixel-level validation, MapEX offers a rigorous and transparent alternative to proprietary software and lowers barriers to routine X-ray map analysis in petrology and materials science. • An open-source Python software for X-ray map phase classification, line scan, correlation plotting and point data. • Improves analysis and visualization of geochemical maps. • It simplifies identifying relationships in geochemical studies and contributes to rock analysis. • Utilises X-ray maps derived from μ-XRF, EPMA, SEM, TEM and synchrotron-based X-ray mapping.