Nuclear microprobe analysis of 14N and 15N in soybean leaves

Abstract A combination of two nuclear microprobe exploitation modes of spectroscopy has been developed to detect 14 N and 15 N in plant tissues. 14 N was determined by proton elastic scattering analysis (PESA) and 15 N by proton induced gamma ray emission (PIGE). The advantages of each mode are outlined. The preparation method of the soybean samples which allows the preservation of the tissue structure is described. After checking the linearity of the quantitative evaluations using calibration curves, we have studied the irradiation damages, evaluating the nitrogen mass loss with the nuclear microprobe facilities of Bruyeres-le-Châtel. An experimental approach for quantitative 14 N and 15 N analysis by these nuclear methods in cryofixed and resin embedded soybean leaves is proposed.