A PIXE data reduction code utilizing an IBM PC

Using a data library of element-specific x-ray energies and their relative intensities in PIXE, a computer code named MAXE (material analysis by x-ray emission) was written for spectrum deconvolution and inspection. Sub-routines were included for peak identification, background continuum generation, system calibration, peak deconvolution and peak-area determination. The background is fitted in parts by an exponential function which allows excellent background generation for any matrix. In addition, combined data collection from the RBS and PIXE set-ups in the same chamber is possible though the code. This allows for double checking of the elemental composition and a wide coverage of the elements that are present in the sample matrix. A performance test of our code compared with a widely used program (AXIL) for PIXE analysis showed good agreement. (author)