Accumulation of elements in annual tree rings measured by synchrotron x-ray fluorescence analysis

• Published in: X-ray spectrometry 2005-09, Vol.34 (5), p.411-416
• Main Authors: Vives, A. E. S., Silva, R. M. C., Medeiros, J. G. da S., Tomazello Filho, M., Barroso, R. C., Zucchi, O. L. A. D, Moreira, S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analytical chemistry; Chemistry; Exact sciences and technology; Spectrometric and optical methods
• ISSN: 0049-8246; 1097-4539
• DOI: 10.1002/xrs.844

Wood samples of hardwood (Eucalyptus sp.) and softwood (Pinus sp.) showing typical anatomical features treated with CCA (copper–chromium–arsenic) were analyzed. The distribution and quantification of metals in the sapwood/heartwood (Eucalyptus sp.) and in the growth‐rings (Pinus sp.) were obtained. The samples were scanned in 320 µm steps in the vertical direction. An x‐ray beam of ∼320 × 180 µm was used. For excitation of the elements white beam synchrotron radiation was employed and for x‐ray detection an Si(Li) semiconductor detector. The x‐ray fluorescence intensities for the elements K, Ca, Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn and As were measured. Heterogeneous distribution of the elements was verified across growth‐rings indicating irregular efficiency of the preservative distribution inside wood in the softwood samples. As expected, in eucalyptus the presence of the elements Cr, Cu and As was verified in the sapwood region only. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.