Trace Element Analysis Of Tropical Woods Using Particle Induced X-Ray Emission (Pixe) Methods From Western Nigeria

Trace element investigation and its corresponding concentration level in selected tropical woods from western Nigeria was done using PIXE-particle induced X-ray emission methods. Fifteen selected tropical woods were analyzed and twenty-seven trace elements were identified and quantified. The identified trace elements are Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Br, Rb, Sr, Y, Zr, Ba, Pb and Bi. Calcium concentration were 2835, 3195, 4923, 5608, 7770, 5110, 2743, 5092 and 3451 ppm in samples 2, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15, respectively. Potassium recorded 2838, 4811, 3184, and 2021ppm in samples 1, 3, 8 and 9, respectively. Silicon recorded 5206 ppm for sample 4 and 5253 ppm for sample 7. Calcium and potassium were observed to have concentration level that is greater than 1000 ppm in all the studied samples, hence it can be said that calcium and potassium are major trace element of wood. The concentrations of the elements identified have no immediate health concern on environment and human, therefore the studied tropical woods safe for use as fuel and other purposes.