Application of alpha scattering for on-line analysis of light elements in aerosols. Final report

Ion scattering analysis (ISA) has been developed to be compatible with ion-excited X-ray analysis (IXA) so that, in a single analytical run, any element from hydrogen through uranium can be observed, and in principle identified, if present above the minimum detectable limits. The technique is most directly useful in studies of atmospheric aerosols, especially with emphasis on visibility reduction, although other uses are being investigated. The most obvious limitation of the technique is that since all elements are observable, the sample substrate will always be seen, limiting sensitivity for several elements