Long proven as an analytical tool of uncommon accuracy and utility,
particle-induced X-ray emission has enjoyed a solid, if narrow,
reputation in the area of chemical analysis. Capable of detecting
elemental concentrations down to parts per million, PIXE is now a
standard component of the analytical arsenal of the nuclear physics
laboratory. Yet in wider avenues of chemical research, PIXE
technology is still relatively new and untested.
An inside look at the nuts and bolts of PIXE from specialists
who've refined the technique in biomedicine, atmospheric science,
geology, and art and archaeology, this comprehensive introduction
to PIXE reveals its conceptual foundation and unique methodology as
well as its, as yet, enormous untapped potential as a primary
analytical tool. Particle-Induced X-Ray Emission Spectrometry
(PIXE) offers professionals and students a practical, user-based
look at the many facets and current uses of PIXE for multielemental
analysis while providing a stimulus for creative, insightful
investigation.
Beginning with a brief history of PIXE, the book then introduces
the reader to the conceptual basics central to understanding and
using PIXE. It details the hardware and methodology that make up
PIXE, examining its instrumentation, characteristics of x-ray
spectroscopy, standardization of quantitative analysis, the
accuracy of PIXE analysis, and its limits of detection. The
technique of focusing proton beams to micron dimensions with the
nuclear microprobe is thoroughly detailed, with practical advice on
what pitfalls to avoid, and clear illustrations of its present uses
in biomedicine, materials science, archaeology, and earth
science.
The following chapters form a comprehensive catalog of the
cutting-edge uses of PIXE in a host of fields, shedding light on
the technical specifics unique to each area of research as well as
the intrinsic versatility of PIXE. A discussion of biological and
medical applications includes a look at sample preparation, micro-
and macro-PIXE, the use of PIXE with other methods, and data
evaluation. PIXE's role in the compositional analysis of
atmospheric aerosols is described, including a look at PIXE's
future impact on global climate research. A look at PIXE's
applications in the earth sciences contrasts the analysis of bulk
material with grains and crystallites and highlights PIXE's
practical uses in key areas of geologic research. PIXE's role in
art and archaeology includes a fascinating and detailed exposition
of its important role in the analysis of gem stones, pottery,
paper-like materials, and pigments and paintings.
Concluding with a detailed comparative analysis of PIXE with
other current analytical methods, the book then provides a
fascinating glimpse into the future prospects of PIXE. A must
reference for the professional and novice in search of the basic
hardware and methods behind the current state of the science,
Particle-Induced X-Ray Emission Spectrometry (PIXE) is a premier
guide to exploring the analytical possibilities open to this unique
technology.
The authoritative handbook to exploiting the full power and
versatility of PIXE-- now and in the next century
Respected for its practical accuracy and detection range of
parts per million, particle-induced X-ray emission has enjoyed a
secure place in the analytical arsenal of the nuclear physics
laboratory. Yet, its undeniable analytical potential in other areas
of science has scarcely been tapped. This unique reference, from
PIXE specialists in biomedicine, atmospheric science, earth
science, and art and archaeology, features a user-based look at
PIXE's conceptual basics and methodology, with a view toward new
and creative analytical work.
Touching on every facet of PIXE technology, from basic
instrumentation, specimens, the characteristics of X-ray
spectroscopy, standardization of quantitative analysis, to the
accuracy of PIXE analysis and its limits of detection, the book
offers an unprecedented look at the newer uses of PIXE in such
areas as: Applications of macro- and micro-PIXE in medicine,
zoology, and botany Analysis of atmospheric aerosols Geological and
extra-terrestrial material Analysis of gem stones, pottery, glass,
and alloys As an exploratory tool for pigments and paintings and
"paper-like" materials
Complete with a comparative look contrasting PIXE with more
conventional forms of analysis, this important reference is key to
grasping the technique's practical specifics and exploiting its
full analytical potential.
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