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Parameter studies for an optimized XRF-determination of Pb in bone
Published online by Cambridge University Press: 01 March 2012
Abstract
One of the main threats to human health from heavy metals is associated with the exposure to lead (Pb). In vivo X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF) of human bone is a widely used technique to determine the total Pb body burden. The intention of this work was to study the feasibility of in vivo L-shell XRF measurements of Pb in bone using X-ray tubes as excitation sources. Parameter studies using direct tube excitation with various anode materials (Mo and W) and filters as well as different secondary targets and low-Z polarizers were performed with regard to the lowest limits of detection (LLD) achievable for Pb in bone matrix. A breakthrough for the development of a portable spectrometer was achieved by using an air-cooled low-power (50 W) Pd anode X-ray tube, Mo secondary target, and a Peltier-cooled silicon drift detector. LLDs for Pb in bone were determined from measurements on a plaster-of-paris standard without overlying tissue equivalent material and found to be around 0.6 μg∕g.
- Type
- X-Ray Fluorescence and Related Techniques
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- Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2006
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