The Use of Synchrotron Radiation for Trace Element Analysis of Biomedical Samples

Trace elements play an important role in sustaining life on Planet Earth. The consumption of energy and other human activities mobilize large quantities of a number of elements in the environment. As a result, the uptake of trace elements by living organisms is being modified, and because of a narrow range of adequacy this can result in different abnormalities. Because of low concentration levels and the variability of species and individuals, a large number of measurements has to be performed in the study of this problem. These requirements give a central role to the methods of detection. If one considers the problems associated with air, water or soil pollution, SR-XRF techniques appear usable in almost all cases.