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Quantitative trace element analysis of human nails with external beam PIXE.
R Lapatto1, A Hietamäki, J Räisänen
1Department of Crystallography, Birbeck College, London, UK.
Biological Trace Element Research
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) analysis accurately measures trace elements in human nails without extensive sample preparation. This method allows for absolute concentration values and provides insights into intra- and interindividual elemental variations.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Human Physiology
- Biomedical Science
Background:
- Human nails serve as a potential matrix for biomonitoring trace elements.
- Previous methods for nail analysis often require extensive sample pretreatment.
- Accurate quantification of trace elements in nails can offer insights into human health and exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the suitability of external beam Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) for analyzing trace elements in human nails.
- To develop and validate a method for obtaining absolute concentration values of elements in nail samples.
- To assess intra- and interindividual variations in trace element concentrations in human nails.
Main Methods:
- External beam PIXE analysis using a 2.4 MeV proton beam.
- Washing as the sole pretreatment for human nail samples.
- Development of a novel standardization method for accurate quantification.
- Analysis of elements including Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Br, and Pb.
Main Results:
- PIXE analysis is suitable for trace element determination in washed human nail samples.
- A new, accurate method for nail sample standardization was successfully developed.
- Concentration values for ten key elements were determined.
- Intra- and interindividual variations, as well as short-term changes, were assessed.
Conclusions:
- External beam PIXE is a viable technique for the non-destructive analysis of trace elements in human nails.
- The developed standardization method enables accurate absolute quantification.
- Nail analysis using PIXE offers a valuable tool for biomonitoring and comparative studies with hair analysis.