ATTEMPT AT IN-AIR PIXE ANALYSIS OF SPOT SAMPLES ON A FILTER-TAPE MOUNTED IN AN AUTOMATED BETA-RAY ABSORPTION MASS MONITOR

Abstract

We attempted in-air-PIXE analysis of SPM using spot samples on a filter-tape mounted in an automated beta-ray absorption mass monitor. Al , Si , S , Fe and Zn , etc., which are of interest for identifying the behavior and characteristics of SPM, were detected on the SPM spot samples on a glass-fiber filter-tape, but the peaks of these elements were nearly identical to those of blank glass-fiber filter-tape. As such, it was difficult to detect elements present in SPM from the X-ray spectra of the spot samples. On the other hand, in the case of a PTFE membrane filter-tape, the S peak was distinct and the Fe peak was also clear, and peaks for elements Al , Mn and Zn , etc., were also confirmed. Consequently, if a method for determining quantity is established, direct multi-elemental analysis by in-air-PIXE of high time-resolution SPM spot samples collected on a PTFE membrane filter-tape mounted in a SPM monitor will be possible.