Introduction to X-ray microanalysis in biology

Journal Article · Sun May 01 00:00:00 EDT 1988 · J. Electron Micros. Tech.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1002/jemt.1060090103· OSTI ID:6515528

Roomans, G M

This paper gives an introduction to X-ray microanalysis for biologists. The physical principles of X-ray microanalysis and the instrumentation used in wavelength-dispersive and energy-dispersive analysis are reviewed. A special problem in biological microanalysis is the adequate preparation of the specimen: The preparative method must retain the localization of the element(s) of interest and allow identification of morphological features at the level of analytical resolution. Conventional preparation methods for electron microscopy have only a limited applicability in biological X-ray microanalysis, and often cryomethods have to be used. Methods for qualitative analysis and some common pitfalls and artefacts are discussed. The possibilities and limitations of electron-probe X-ray microanalysis with regard to biological specimens are compared to those of other microanalytical techniques.

• Research Organization: Univ. of Stockholm (Sweden)
• OSTI ID: 6515528
• Journal Information: J. Electron Micros. Tech.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Electron Micros. Tech.; (United States) Vol. 9:1; ISSN JEMTE
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

550301* -- Cytology-- Tracer Techniques
59 BASIC BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
BIOLOGICAL MATERIALS
BIOLOGY
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
CRYOBIOLOGY
DATA COVARIANCES
ELECTRON MICROPROBE ANALYSIS
EVALUATION
FREEZING
MATERIALS
MICROANALYSIS
MORPHOLOGY
SAMPLE PREPARATION