SRXRF for investigation of plants in conditions of radioactive contamination

X-ray fluorescence analysis using synchrotron radiation (SRXRF) was applied to determine element composition in the aboveground part of Pentaphylloides fruticosa (bush cinquefoil) under conditions of man-caused radionuclide contamination. It is ascertained that Ti, V, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Br, Zr, and Ba content increases and S, Mn, Ag, Sn, I, and Cd content decreases in plants from the contaminated area in comparison with those from locations with background radiation. Significant changes are determined in element ratios Fe/Mn, Cu/Zn, Ba/Ca, and K/Rb, which indicate adverse conditions of bush cinquefoil growing. These findings allow using these plants as a phytometer of radioactive contamination.