Determination of trace elements in the water cycle by total-reflection x-ray fluorescence spectrometry

The determination of trace elements in the various stages of the water cycle is very important. Economic procedures for multi-element determinations of trace elements in various matrices are needed. The applications of total-reflection x-ray fluorescence spectrometry in this general area are reviewed briefly, with examples relating to rain, river and sea waters, sediments, particulate matter and manganese nodules and crusts, as well as mussel tissue. Up to 25 elements can be determined; these are S, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Pb, Se, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Mo, Ag, Cd, Sb and Ba. Preliminary treatments of the various matrices are described. Accuracy checks by analysis of reference standards and by application of independent techniques are reported.