Proton Induced X-ray Emission Spectroscopy Research Articles

Multi-Technique Characterization of 3.45 Ga Microfossils on Earth: A Key Approach to Detect Possible Traces of Life in Returned Samples from Mars.

The NASA Mars 2020 Perseverance rover is actively exploring Jezero crater to conduct analyses on igneous and sedimentary rock targets from outcrops located on the crater floor (Máaz and Séítah formations) and from the delta deposits, respectively. The rock samples collected during this mission will be recovered during the Mars Sample Return mission, which plans to bring samples back to Earth in the 2030s to conduct in-depth studies using sophisticated laboratory instrumentation. Some of these samples may contain traces of ancient martian life that may be particularly difficult to detect and characterize because of their morphological simplicity and subtle biogeochemical expressions. Using the volcanic sediments of the 3.45 Ga Kitty's Gap Chert (Pilbara, Australia), containing putative early life forms (chemolithotrophs) and considered as astrobiological analogues for potential early Mars organisms, we document the steps required to demonstrate the syngenicity and biogenicity of such biosignatures using multiple complementary analytical techniques to provide information at different scales of observation. These include sedimentological, petrological, mineralogical, and geochemical analyses to demonstrate macro- to microscale habitability. New approaches, some unavailable at the time of the original description of these features, are used to verify the syngenicity and biogenicity of the purported fossil chemolithotrophs. The combination of elemental (proton-induced X-ray emission spectrometry) and molecular (deep-ultraviolet and Fourier transform infrared) analyses of rock slabs, thin sections, and focused ion beam sections reveals that the carbonaceous matter present in the samples is enriched in trace metals (e.g., V, Cr, Fe, Co) and is associated with aromatic and aliphatic molecules, which strongly support its biological origin. Transmission electron microscopy observations of the carbonaceous matter documented an amorphous nanostructure interpreted to correspond to the degraded remains of microorganisms and their by-products (extracellular polymeric substances, filaments…). Nevertheless, a small fraction of carbonaceous particles has signatures that are more metamorphosed. They probably represent either reworked detrital biological or abiotic fragments of mantle origin. This study serves as an example of the analytical protocol that would be needed to optimize the detection of fossil traces of life in martian rocks.

Analysis of rain-deposited dust on polysulfone membranes using proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy

Proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy (PIXE) is a long-established method of nondestructive elemental analysis for environmental samples. While a standard method of recovery of solids from rainwater involves filtration onto polysulfone media, PIXE analysis has not typically been used on such substrates. We describe methodologies of the University of North Texas Ion Beam Laboratory for PIXE analysis of dust in Texas rainwater on polysulfone membranes from the National Atmospheric Deposition Program (NADP). PIXE analyses utilized a 2 MeV proton beam of 1 × 1 mm2 spot size with beam currents of 1–5nA. A 100 µm Al absorber attenuated X-rays produced by S native to the polysulfone and minimized pileup, allowing use of higher beam currents at the expense of detecting elements of Z < 22. Uniformity of dust deposition on the membranes was evaluated by utilizing Fe concentration as a dust tracer. Areas of uniform particulate deposition with comparable results to averages across the entire membrane were located, allowing reduced acquisition time. GeoPIXE software was used for quantitative analysis, and 18 elements (Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Br, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Hg and Pb) were investigated for a collaborative project. Average minimum detection limits (MDL) were ≤ 10 ng/cm2 for 21 > Z greater than 36 and 10–30 ng/cm2 for 36 < Z < 83. Polysulfone is shown to be an appropriate substrate for PIXE analysis of environmental samples, especially when quantification of low-Z elements is not a priority.

An Insight into a Shang Dynasty Bronze Vessel by Nuclear Techniques

A bronze wine vessel attributed to 1600–1046 B.C., Shang dynasty in China, an object from the East Asian Collection of the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences in Sydney (Australia), was studied using a non-destructive scientific analytical protocol based on the synergic combination of nuclear techniques. Gamma spectrometry, neutron-computed tomography, and proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectroscopy were applied to gain a better insight into the structural and compositional features of the artefact to prove its authenticity. Gamma spectrometry was performed to assess the risk of excessive sample activation induced by long exposure to the neutron beam and to determine the bulk elemental composition. Based on neutron-computed tomography, the porosities and the thickness of the metal wall were evaluated and found consistent with the piece-mould casting technology adopted by craftsmen during the Shang dynasty in China. Finally, PIXE spectroscopy demonstrated the use of a ternary (copper–tin-leaded) alloy and the nature of mineralisation on the surface.

Synchrotron radiation study on Thai reddish glass

It is well-known that red glass has been used as a decorative glass in Thailand for hundred years. Pieces of reddish decorative glasses (Ancient Burmese Glass: ABG, Ancient Thai Glass: ATG, and Modern Imported Glass: MIG) have been collected from different areas in Thailand. The elemental composition and morphology of these samples have been examined using scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy (PIXE). The binding components have been analyzed using infrared spectroscopy based on synchrotron radiation (SR IR). PIXE results indicate a presence of trace elements which is beyond the limit of detection of EDS. It has been found that ABG and MIG are soda-silicate glass, while ATG is lead-based glass. The red coloration in ABG, ATG, and MIG is affected by the contents of Cu, Cd, and Se. It is also found that ABG and MIG have been produced using crucible vessel and glass-making furnace, respectively, while ATG has been produced using either crucible vessel or glass-making furnace. With the high brightness of the synchrotron source, SR IR can analyze the sample with a high spatial resolution of 20 × 20 µm2. SR IR results confirm the presence of inorganic and organic functional groups in glass samples which exhibit distinctive peaks for different types of glass.

Standardization procedure to provide a unified multi-method elemental compositional dataset, application to ferruginous colouring matters from Namibia

Curation of archaeological materials often leads to carrying out multi-analytical methodologies that combine non-invasive and invasive elemental analyses. Such materials are often analysed with different techniques. It results in the production of complementary but apparently non-compatible compositional datasets that cannot be easily compared. In the present paper, we propose to compare results acquired on geological ferruginous colouring matters from Namibia with analytical techniques (X-Ray Fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), Proton-Induced-X-ray Emission spectrometry (PIXE), Inductively Coupled Plasma coupled to Optical Emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and Inductively Coupled Plasma coupled to Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)). We aim to provide a unified elemental dataset about these ferruginous colouring matters, usually referred to as “ochre” in archaeology. Analysed geological samples come from three distinct tectonostratigraphic zones of Namibia surveyed in the frame of rock art research. When compared directly, three of the four datasets obtained from these measurements appear as non-compatible because of the inter-equipment variability. However, through a simple standardization procedure, we demonstrate that it is possible to unify these datasets. This procedure minimizes the inter-equipment variability, making the inter-zones of provenance predominant and allowing distinctions of the samples according to their sole origin. Beyond shedding new light on the possibility to compare different elemental analytical techniques, this procedure paves the way for complementary multimodal studies of ferruginous colouring matters.

Characterization of Ancient Burial Pottery of Ban Muang Bua Archaeological Site (Northeastern Thailand) Using X-ray Spectroscopies

Ancient potteries found at Ban Muang Bua, located in northeastern Thailand, associate with Thung Kula Ronghai culture. Most of them are products used in daily life and grave goods. The potsherds were examined using techniques based on X-ray spectroscopy. Elemental composition and morphology were analyzed using proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy (PIXE) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). Three-dimensional analysis was performed using X-ray tomographic microscopy based on synchrotron radiation (SR XTM). Irregular plate-like particles of composites with a wide range of size distribution were found in the potsherds. The major (O, Si, and Al), minor (C, Fe, Ca, and K), and trace elements (P, S, Ti, Na, Mg, and Zn) which were observed can provide the information about raw materials and production of pottery. The 3D tomographic images show the internal feature of these samples. The combination of SEM-EDS, PIXE, and SR XTM is a powerful tool for archaeological research especially in terms of composition and internal structure. The results imply that the raw materials of pottery were sandy soil derived from marine sands, clays, and salt deposits that were mostly iron-rich-kaolin clay. The production was carried out with low firing temperatures (~600–900 °C) in open-air kilns.

X-ray spectroscopy study on Thai amulet of Phra Kru Nadune

Thai Amulets are found in many forms in Thailand. They have been made by many different ethnic groups with different traditions. Phra Kru Nadune is one of the important amulets created in Dvaravati period that has been found at Nadune district, Mahasarakham province, northeastern Thailand. Many molds which are all terracotta have been used for production. Microstructure and composition of selected samples of the ancient amulets and the imitative one have been characterized using scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy (PIXE). The results show that many elements are present as major (C, O, and Si), minor (Na, Al, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn), and trace elements (Mg, P, S, Ti, Cr, and Mn). Quartz, rice husk, orthoclase, anhydrite, and laterite are the base components, while zinc, copper, and bauxite are the characteristic components. These non-destructive techniques show obvious composition difference between the ancient (original) and new (imitative) amulets.

Continuous Monitoring of Pure Fe Corrosion in Lead-Bismuth Eutectic Under Irradiation with Proton-Induced X-ray Emission Spectroscopy

Continuous Monitoring of Pure Fe Corrosion in Lead-Bismuth Eutectic Under Irradiation with Proton-Induced X-ray Emission Spectroscopy

SEM-EDS, PIXE and Raman spectroscopies analysis of Khlong Thom ancient glass bead, southern Thailand

Various colors of glass beads excavated at the Khlong Thom archaeological site in southern Thailand were characterized non-destructively using proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy (PIXE), scanning electron microscope coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (SEM-EDS), and Raman spectroscopy in order to determine the glass composition and production technology in ancient time. The results show that most of them are alkali-based glass matrices. Some of them are high lead-bearing glass. The glass compositions are approximately the same as the Mediterranean, Islamic, and Indian glasses, but with a higher concentration of aluminum. The colors are influenced by transition metal-ions content such as copper, iron, and manganese. High content of lead has been found in the samples with opaque colors, especially the yellow opaque. The corroded and flaked surface of the glass bead has been revealed by SEM. In a comparison of glass composition, it can be proposed that there is some relationship in production technology between Khlong Thom archaeological site and other sites: South-East Asia; South Asia; East Asia; Asia Minor; and South Africa. This information indicates the historical link of both land and maritime networks for long-distance trade and exchange in ancient time.

A comparison of waste recycling facilities for their contribution of heavy metals and trace elements in ambient air.

A multi-elemental analysis, including heavy metals and trace elements in ambient air samples, was conducted for computers, wires, lead batteries, and iron extraction facilities in Lahore by proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) spectroscopy. The data obtained from PIXE analysis revealed the presence of Mg, Al, Zn, S, Pb, K, Ti, Fe, Si, K, and Cr elements at e-waste recycling facilities. The computer dismantling site revealed a higher concentration of Fe (634.7 μg/m3), Al (176.8 μg/m3), Pb (135.4 μg/m3) and Zn (122.5 μg/m3) in the air samples. The decreasing order of heavy metals and trace elements contribution at the computer dismantling site was as Si > Fe > Al > Pb > Zn > Mg > Ca > Cr > K > S > Ti. Similarly, at wires/cables burning site, a higher concentration of Fe, Al, and Pb (829.8 μg/m3, 184.5 μg/m3 and 115.6 μg/m3, respectively) were observed, and the elements revealed a descending trend as Si > Fe > Al > Zn > Pb > Mg > Ca > Cr > Ti > K > S. The lead batteries dismantling site showed the highest Pb concentration (141.2 μg/m3) due to the disassembling of lead acid batteries. Al, Zn, Fe, and Cr also revealed higher concentration in air samples and exhibited a declining trend as Si > Fe > Al > Pb > Zn > Cr > Ca > Mg > Ti > K > S. However, the highest concentration of Fe (865.7 μg/m3) was detected in air samples of iron extraction sites besides Al and Zn. The descending order of trace elements contribution was Si > Fe > Al > Zn > Mg > K > Ca > Ti > S. Furthermore, the correlation between workers' awareness and their possible health impacts were also examined in the study. Most of the workers were less aware of the hazardous impacts. Majority of workers and residents were suffering from a respiratory illness (27.5% and 32.5%), kidney failure (15% and 22.5%), and neurological disorders (15% and 7.5%), respectively, due to exposure of airborne particulate matter which could be correlated with the higher concentration of heavy metals such as Pb, Cr, Zn, and Fe in the ambient air at the e-waste recycling sites.

Mn-Induced Thermal Stability of L10 Phase in Fept Magnetic Nanoscale Ribbons.

Magnetic nanoscale materials exhibiting the L10 tetragonal phase such as FePt or ternary alloys derived from FePt show most promising magnetic properties as a novel class of rare earth free permanent magnets with high operating temperature. A granular alloy derived from binary FePt with low Pt content and the addition of Mn with the nominal composition Fe57Mn8Pt35 has been synthesized in the shape of melt-spun ribbons and subsequently annealed at 600 °C and 700 °C for promoting the formation of single phase, L10 tetragonal, hard magnetic phase. Proton-induced X-ray emission spectroscopy PIXE has been utilized for checking the compositional effect of Mn addition. Structural properties were analyzed using X-ray diffraction and diffractograms were analyzed using full profile Rietveld-type analysis with MAUD (Materials Analysis Using Diffraction) software. By using temperature-dependent synchrotron X-ray diffraction, the disorder–order phase transformation and the stability of the hard magnetic L10 phase were monitored over a large temperature range (50–800 °C). A large interval of structural stability of the L10 phase was observed and this stability was interpreted in terms of higher ordering of the L10 phase promoted by the Mn addition. It was moreover found that both crystal growth and unit cell expansion are inhibited, up to the highest temperature investigated (800 °C), proving thus that the Mn addition stabilizes the formed L10 structure further. Magnetic hysteresis loops confirmed structural data, revealing a strong coercive field for a sample wherein single phase, hard, magnetic tetragonal L10 exists. These findings open good perspectives for use as nanocomposite, rare earth free magnets, working in extreme operation conditions.

Studies of bronze corrosion phenomena by EBS and complementary techniques

Two binary bronze alloys were investigated in order to clarify the development of corrosion products on bronze exposed to chloride corrosive media. Bronzes were prepared by magnetron sputtering deposition on glass to create highly uniform and smooth bronze layers.The main goal was to monitor corrosion phenomena in the first and the most pronounced period of corrosion layer formation in duration of 11 days. For this purpose Ion Beam Analysis (IBA), i.e. Elastic Backscattering Spectrometry (EBS) with 2 MeV protons and 1.5 MeV Li beams were used to monitor the general stoichiometry and thicknesses of the corrosion product layers for different aging parameters. Simultaneously, Proton-Induced X-ray Emission Spectroscopy (PIXE) was used in addition to ATR-FTIR and Raman measurements to find out if, beside copper oxides, other species were present in the corrosion layer as well.

An optimized 19F (p, αγ)16O elemental mapping facility

A new target stage that allows a close positioning of a large 5in × 5in NaI(Tl) detector was implemented at the 45° beam-line end-station at the Centre for Ion Beam Applications (CIBA). Here we present preliminary results demonstrating the improvement in the F detection limit available in the new geometry. The reaction 19F(p, αγ)16O was used to map fluorine in untreated and fluorine/laser treated areas on human tooth samples.Proton Induced Gamma-Ray Emission (PIGE) was used in combination with Proton Induced X-Ray Emission (PIXE) and Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS) for quantitative elemental mapping of fluorine. A 2 MeV proton beam focused to 5~10 μm spot size with a beam current of 0.5–1 nA was used along with a new in-vacuum piezo-driven three-axis target-stage at the nuclear microscopy beamline end-station. The new stage, which replaces the manual target positioning system, optimizes the solid angle subtended by factor of 13.

RBS, PIXE, Ion-Microbeam and SR-FTIR Analyses of Pottery Fragments from Azerbaijan

The present work is aimed at the investigation of the ceramic bulk and pigmented glazed surfaces of ancient potteries dating back to XIX century A.D. and coming from the charming archeological site located in the Medieval Agsu town (Azerbaijan), a geographic area of special interest due to the ancient commercial routes between China, Asia Minor, and Europe. For the purpose of the study, complementary investigation tools have been exploited: non-destructive or micro-destructive investigation at elemental level by ion beam analysis (IBA) techniques, by using Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS), Proton-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) spectroscopy and ion-microbeam analysis, and chemical characterization at microscopic level, by means of synchrotron radiation (SR) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) microspectroscopy. The acquired information reveals useful for the identification of the provenance, the reconstruction of the firing technology, and finally, the identification of the pigment was used as a colorant of the glaze.

Iron concentrations in neurons and glial cells with estimates on ferritin concentrations

BackgroundBrain iron is an essential as well as a toxic redox active element. Physiological levels are not uniform among the different cell types. Besides the availability of quantitative methods, the knowledge about the brain iron lags behind. Thereby, disclosing the mechanisms of brain iron homeostasis helps to understand pathological iron-accumulations in diseased and aged brains. With our study we want to contribute closing the gap by providing quantitative data on the concentration and distribution of iron in neurons and glial cells in situ. Using a nuclear microprobe and scanning proton induced X-ray emission spectrometry we performed quantitative elemental imaging on rat brain sections to analyze the iron concentrations of neurons and glial cells.ResultsNeurons were analyzed in the neocortex, subiculum, substantia nigra and deep cerebellar nuclei revealing an iron level between (0.53pm 2) and (0.68pm 2),upmu hbox {M}. The iron concentration of neocortical oligodendrocytes is fivefold higher, of microglia threefold higher and of astrocytes twofold higher compared to neurons. We also analyzed the distribution of subcellular iron concentrations in the cytoplasm, nucleus and nucleolus of neurons. The cytoplasm contains on average 73% of the total iron, the nucleolus—although a hot spot for iron—due to its small volume only 6% of total iron. Additionally, the iron level in subcellular fractions were measured revealing that the microsome fraction, which usually contains holo-ferritin, has the highest iron content. We also present an estimate of the cellular ferritin concentration calculating 133pm 25 ferritin molecules per upmu hbox {m} in rat neurons.ConclusionGlial cells are the most iron-rich cells in the brain. Imbalances in iron homeostasis that lead to neurodegeneration may not only be originate from neurons but also from glial cells. It is feasible to estimate the ferritin concentration based on measured iron concentrations and a reasonable assumptions on iron load in the brain.

Elemental Analysis of Cement by Calibration-Free Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) and Comparison with Laser Ablation – Time-of-Flight – Mass Spectrometry (LA-TOF-MS), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectrometry (EDX), X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF), and Proton Induced X-Ray Emission Spectrometry (PIXE)

The purpose of the present study is to determine the elemental composition of Pakistani cement brands using calibration-free laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (CF-LIBS) and to compare the obtained results with the other analytical techniques such as, laser ablation – time-of-flight – mass spectrometry (LA-TOF-MS), energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and proton induced X-ray emission spectrometry (PIXE). Compositional results reveal that all the cement brands are mainly composed of calcium, silicon, iron, aluminum, magnesium, potassium, sodium, titanium, lithium and strontium with varying concentrations. The compositions obtained by LIBS and LA-TOF-MS are in good agreement with results obtained by the other standard techniques and demonstrate the potential use of LIBS for the online monitoring of industrial cement production.

Multivariate Analysis and Contamination Studies of Elemental Profile in Ife/Ijesa Goldmine Tailings, Southwestern, Nigeria

The concentration of metals in the tailings of Ife/Ijesa goldmine, Nigeria was identified by using Proton Induced X-Ray Emission spectrometry as the main analytical tools. A total of 75 samples of the tailings were collected. Correlation, principal component and cluster analyses suggested probable natural and anthropogenic sources of the metals in the tailings. The contamination level of heavy metals was assessed on the basis of geo-accumulation index (), and ecological risk. The analysis of revealed moderately-heavily to heavily extremely contaminated. The value of showed a low level of heavy metals except Cu which shows considerable contamination.

Petrography of the carbonaceous, diamond-bearing stone “Hypatia” from southwest Egypt: A contribution to the debate on its origin

The stone named “Hypatia” found in the Libyan Desert Glass area of southwest Egypt is carbon-dominated and rich in microdiamonds. Previous noble gas and nitrogen isotope studies suggest an extraterrestrial origin. We report on a reconnaissance study of the carbonaceous matrix of this stone and the phases enclosed in it. This focused on areas not affected by numerous transecting fractures mostly filled with secondary minerals. The work employed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy-dispersive (EDS) and wavelength-dispersive (WDS) electron microprobe (EMPA) analysis, Proton Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) spectrometry and micro-Raman spectroscopy. We found that carbonaceous matrices of two types occur irregularly intermingled on the 50–500 μm scale: Matrix-1, consisting of almost pure carbonaceous matter, and Matrix-2, containing Fe, Ni, P and S at abundances analyzable by microprobe. Matrix-2 contains the following phases as inclusions: (i) (Fe,Ni) sulphide occurring in cloud-like concentrations of sub-μm grains, in domains of the matrix that are enriched in Fe and S. These domains have (Fe + Ni)/S (atomic) = 1.51 ± 0.24 and Ni/Fe = 0.086 ± 0.061 (both 1SD); (ii) grains up to ∼5 μm in size of moissanite (SiC); (iii) Ni-phosphide compound grains up to 60 μm across that appear cryptocrystalline or amorphous and have (Ni + Fe)/P (atomic) = 5.6. ± 1.7 and Ni/Fe = 74 ± 29 (both 1SD), where both these ratios are much higher than any known Ni-phosphide minerals; (iv) rare grains (observed only once) of graphite, metallic Al, Fe and Ag, and a phase consisting of Ag, P and I. In Matrix-2, Raman spectroscopy shows a prominent narrow diamond band at 1340 cm−1. In Matrix-1 the D and G bands of disordered carbon are dominant, but a minor diamond band is ubiquitous, accounting for the uniform hardness of the material. The D and G bands have average full width at half maximum (FWHM) values of 295 ± 19 and 115 ± 19 cm−1, respectively, and the D/G intensity ratio is 0.75 ± 0.09 (both 1SD). These values are similar to those of the most primitive solar system carbonaceous matter. The diamond phase is considered to be a product of shock. The (Fe, Ni) sulphide phase is probably pyrrhotite and a shock origin is likewise proposed for it. Moissanite is frequently associated with the Ni-phosphide phase, and a presolar origin for both is suggested. The lack of recrystallization of the Ni-phosphide phase suggests that the Hypatia stone did not experience long-lasting thermal metamorphism, in accord with the Raman D-G band characteristics.A lack of silicate matter sets the stone apart from interplanetary dust particles and known cometary material. This, along with the dual intermingled matrices internal to it, could indicate a high degree of heterogeneity in the early solar nebula.

Mechanochemical bulk synthesis and e-beam growth of thin films of Sb2Se3 photovoltaic absorber

Antimonselite (Sb2Se3) bulk material has been prepared by mechanical alloying through ball milling of the elemental precursors antimony (Sb) and selenium (Se) in place of conventional solid state synthesis. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy studies and Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) studies confirm the formation of polycrystalline Sb2Se3 along with elemental Sb. The as-milled bulk material was used as source to deposit Sb2Se3 thin films by e-beam deposition. Thin films have been grown at a substrate temperature of ∼373 K with an optimal electron beam current (Ib) of ∼30 mA at fixed voltage of ∼5 kV. The films were studied using XRD and Raman spectroscopy for the structural and phase analyses. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) measurements revealed the formation of near stoichiometric thin films with smooth and uniform surface. Rutherford backscattered spectrometry (RBS) and proton induced X-ray emission spectroscopy (PIXE) tools were employed to confirm the chemical composition of as-grown Sb2Se3 thin films. Optical transmission spectrum showed a very sharp transition near the fundamental absorption edge ∼1.26 eV. The films exhibited an average absorption coefficient values exceeding > 104 cm−1 in the visible region making it a promising material for solar absorber in thin film solar cell.

Comparison of PIXE and XRF in the analysis of silver denarii of the early Piast

The collection of denarii from the time of development of a Polish medieval state was studied using the proton induced X-ray emission spectroscopy. The major elements detected for these denarii are Ag and Cu, while minor elements such as Pb, Fe, Au, Bi, and Zn may also be present. The aim of the study was to cross-compare the results with a previous micro-X-ray fluorescence data and to perform a better quantification of the denarii elemental composition, especially for trace elements, providing suggestions of the origin of alloy compounds.