The above examples show that characterization of paper surfaces with WDS X-ray mapping can provide practical data about the distribution of fillers and surface additives used in ink jet printer paper. In this work we have :

• Shown that starch coverage is related to pcc distribution
• Quantitatively compared pcc distributions of different papers
• Detected the widespread presence of Si and Al

This data can be used to improve the quality of the paper and lower costs of producing it. This study also shows that valuable information can be garnered from materials which might otherwise be considered unsuitable for WDS techniques.

Further work should be done in decreasing the time required for iodine mapping by simultaneous collection of peak and background measurements^3,4 and in obtaining more quantitative data about the actual coverage of fillers.

ACKNOWLEGEMENTS

The presentation has benefited from discussions with Professor Don Baker, Earth and Planetary Sciences McGill University.

REFERENCES

1. Goldstein, et al ., 1992. Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Microanalysis. 2nd ed. Plenum Press, New York, London

2. Teitelbaum et al. 1980, Jour. Amer, Chem Soc. 102:10

3. Newbury et al. 1991 in Electron Probe Quantitation. Eds Heinrich K.F.J., and Newbury D. E. Plenum Press, New York, London

4. Mykelbust et al., 1989. Anal Chem, 61, 1612 - 1618