Proton induced x-ray emission (PIXE) analysis at Lucas Heights.

State of the proton induced x-ray emission (PIXE) work at Lucas Heights is reported together with a full description of the experimental arrangement and its use for analysis of trace elements (Z > 14). The fundamentals of PIXE are examined in detail with a view to understanding not only the background continuum but also the x-ray production mechanisms. Quantitative predictions for the number of x-rays detected after proton bombardment of the target have been made and these compare well with experiments