Analysis of meteorite samples using PIXE technique

A non-destructive approach to the sample treatment during the analytical process is one of the crucial advantages of the particle induced X-ray emission technique. Rare and precious environmental and space samples can be analyzed in order to evaluate concentrations of individual elements presented in specimens. A non-destructive analysis of two meteorite samples was carried out using 3 MeV protons incident in a narrow ion beam (1.5 mm diam.). GUPIXWIN software package was used for spectra evaluation. Concentrations of several elements (Fe, Ni, Cu and Zn) were determined and quantitative surface elemental distribution maps were constructed.