Use of PIXE analysis to determine trace metals in drinking water in Jordan

The procedure for using proton induced X-ray emission (PIXE) in conjuction with the method of spotting for qualitative and quantitative multi-element analysis of drinking water in eight cities of Jordan is discussed in this article. It is likely that this method of preconcentration can be directly incorporated into field sampling procedures, thus eliminating the problems of sample contamination or trace element losses by absorption on container walls, the significance of some of the elements found in the samples is discussed.