Preparation of PIXE samples by lithium metaborate fusion

Materials containing a significant silicate matrix are often considered for element analysis by the PIXE method. In some circumstances such materials may not be conveniently prepared for sample analysis. It has been found that a lithium metaborate fusion-acid dissolution procedure works well for converting siliceous materials into solution from which thin-target PIXE samples may be made. We have demonstrated that this method will allow rapid and accurate element analysis. The lithium metaborate, however, creates a matrix residue leading to the requirement for sample thickness corrections and an increase in detection limits. We have found this to be a useful sample-preparation method. (orig.)