Realization of the simultaneous micro-PIXE analysis of heavy and light elements at a nuclear microprobe

A new in-vacuum micro-PIXE experimental set-up has been realised at an Oxfo rd-type scanning nuclear microprobe facility. It is based on the simultaneo us use of an ultra thin windowed detector and a conventional Be-windowed on e for the measurement of the characteristic X-rays of light and heavier ele ments in the E approximate to 0.2-6 keV and E > 4 keV energy ranges, respec tively. Complete analytical characterisation of samples from carbon to uran ium is possible in a single irradiation process. Performance and technical developments are described in detail. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All ri ghts reserved.