Trace element analysis of seawater and fish samples by proton induced x-ray emission spectroscopy

Abstract

Proton induced X-ray emission spectroscopy has been used for trace element analysis of seawater and fish (trout-Salmo gairdneri) samples. To test the applicability of the technique for large-scale analysis of seawater and fish samples, the consistency of results from equivalent samples was checked. Also, a volatilization study was made at several different beam intensities to determine the effects of the beam on trace elements in the samples. The reproducibility of the results was found to be within acceptable limits.