Paparamborde: a software dedicated to quantitative mapping of biological samples using scanning transmission ion microscopy

Paparamborde, Programme d’Analyse des PArticules RAlenties dans la Matiere de BORDEaux, a software dedicated to the scanning transmission ion microscopy (STIM) analysis of biological samples was developed. The programme includes the reconstruction of the median and/or mean energy loss image of the sample, as well as accurate calculation of sample thickness performed over the whole or a part of the scanned surface. The calculation is based on the conversion of transmitted particle energy into areal density of matter (μg/cm2) and uses SRIM code for the stopping power calculation. A new routine for the calculation of X-ray absorption correction factors (XCF), as needed for PIXE quantification of trace element, has been added in the latest version of Paparamborde, allowing the thickness heterogeneity of sample to be properly taken into account in the calculation of XCF.