Application of total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for multi-elements characterization in human hair

Biomonitoring of Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb in scalp hair of the rural population in Punjab state of India was carried out using TXRF. The objective of the study was to understand their exposure to the trace elements from the local environment. The volunteers having age group 30–45 years were selected from rural region of Punjab. Validity of method was checked by analyzing Certified Reference Materials IAEA-436 and INCT-MPH-2. The results of trace elements analysis in hair samples shows no environmental gradient in the concentration of the elements like Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn however Pb was observed higher in few volunteers as compared to published value of concentrations in volunteers from Delhi.