Multi-element analysis of solid and liquid samples by x-ray fluorescence(XRFA)

Quantitative elemental analysis by energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence method has been developed, using radioactive excitation sources of 55Fe, 109Cd, 241Am, and X-ray spectrometer with Si(Li) and HpGe semiconductor detectors. An approach based on use of photoeffect cross-sections and fluorescence yields has been elaborated and the method applied in quantitative analysis of solid and liquid samples of inorganic and organic origin. A complete calibration of the spectroscopic system for analytical work has been performed. Necessary corrections of the results for the absorption and enhancement are discussed as well, and the sensitivity and overall accuracy of the technique are determined. Different methods of the preparation of solid and liquid samples are presented as well. The analytical results of a variety of samples are presented and discussed. Nairobi drinking water samples have been analyzed and the origin of contamination with Zn and Pb established. The analysis of geological samples, soil samples, alloys, food products, pharmaceuticals, urine samples, etc., illustrate the applicability of x-ray fluorescence analysis in geology, agriculture, medicine, biology and environmental pollution studies, and point out the advantages of the method with regard to other analytical techniques. (author)