Limitation of uranium and thorium traces in charnockite matrix-PIXE analyses at 3 MeV with Si (Li) detector.

In the geochemical analysis of charnockite matrix, PIXE results do not show either the minor or traces of thorium and uranium even though they are present in that charnockite composition. Because of a continuous range of elements in charnockite composition and characteristic X-rays of some elements present at similar to characteristic X-rays of thorium and uranium. Therefore, Th and U traces quantification are limited due to the interferences in the PIXE spectrum at similar characteristic X-ray energies of the elements. Otherwise, it is possible for quantification, if the composition does not contain the elements at similar characteristic X-rays of Th and U or using complementary techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]