A simple method of x-ray fluorescence analysis in hair

A simple X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis method has been developed for the determination of trace element concentrations in hair. It utilises strands of hair which are dropped on a Formvar foil and irradiated in an X-ray beam. The effective sample mass was estimated by measuring scattered X-ray photons. The attenuation correction for the X-rays from light elements was estimated using a simple model. Results are in agreement with those obtained by the atomic absorption method.