Sediments from Algiers bay were analysed by means of x-ray fluorescenc
e (XRF) and by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry (RES), The RES a
nalysis allowed the determination of the matrix composition of the sed
iments, which was used for the XRF analysis. Quantitative analyses wit
h the XRF and RES systems were performed by using an x-ray tube and a
3.75 MV Van de Graaff accelerator, respectively. The results give info
rmation about the concentration levels of Mn, Cu, Zn and Pb in the sup
erficial sediments (fine fraction) in the coastal zone. (C) 1997 by Jo
hn Wiley & Sons Ltd.