Procedures of target preparation to improve PIXE efficiency in environmental research

The capability of the PIXE technique to investigate trace elements in the environment (non-living phases) can be improved by suitable target preparation procedures. This work describes the methodologies performed to apply PIXE in the study of a coastal lagoon ecosystem, with fresh and sea water, surface bottom sediment and pore water analysis, and to approach glaciochemical research, with analysis of atmospheric aerosols deposited in firn and ice.