Application of X-ray Fluorescence Spectrometry to the Study of the Marine Environment

Abstract
The possibility of using X-ray techniques for the study of pollution of a marine ecosystem by heavy metals has been investigated. In this preliminary study data are reported, obtained on the concentrations of Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn of various samples of marine organisms, sediments and sea water which have been collected in the Mediterranean sea together with atmospheric particulates on the coast near La Spezia. Improvements in the analytical procedure are proposed.