Abstract

A method for the trace element analysis of hair by charged particle X-ray fluorescence is presented. The validity of the method is shown by the analysis of NBS SRM 1577--Bovine Liver, obtained from the National Bureau of Standards. Excellent correlation is obtained between results from the analysis by the X-ray method and those certified by NBS. Hair samples are ashed by a low temperature oxidation process and analyzed by the X-ray method. The results from the analysis by the X-ray method are compared to those obtained from the analysis of the same hair samples by atomic absorption. Good correlation is found for iron values but copper values appear low. Subsequent checks show that the low copper values appear to be linked to the low temperature ashing process. The results for nine different elements are tabulated along with the results for the analysis of rabbit hair and deer hair.

Degree

College and Department

Physical and Mathematical Sciences; Chemistry and Biochemistry

Rights

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