Advancing the application of pXRF for animal samples

Portable x-ray fluorescent (pXRF) technology provides significant opportunities for rapid, non-destructive data collection in a range of fields of study. However, there are sources of variation and sample assumptions that may influence the data obtained, particularly in animal samples. We used representative species for four taxa (fish, mammals, birds, reptiles) to test the precision of replicate scans, and the impact of sample thickness, sample state, scan location and scan time on data obtained from a pXRF. We detected some significant differences in concentration data due to sample state, scanning time and scanning location for all taxa. Infinite thickness assumptions were met for fish, reptile and mammal representatives at all body locations. Infinite thickness was not met for feathers. Scan time results found in most cases the 40, 60 and 80 second beam scan times were equivalent but significantly different to 20 second beam scan times. Concentration data across replicate scans were highly correlated. The opportunities for the use of pXRF in biological studies are wide-ranging. These findings highlight the considerations required when scanning biological samples to ensure the required data are suitably collected and standardised while reducing radiation exposure to live animals.