Proton induced K X-ray production cross sections of the elements Al, Si, Ti, Fe, and Ni in the 0.7–2.0 MeV energy range

Proton induced K-shell ionization cross sections were obtained for the elements Al, Si, Ti, Fe, and Ni in the 0.7–2.0 MeV energy range. The accuracy of these fundamental parameters is essential for PIXE analysis and the data in the literature present a considerable spread, mainly for Al and Si. The values obtained for Ti, Fe and Ni are compatible with the current theories and the experimental results reported in the literature. However, Al and Si cross sections present important differences from theoretical and experimental data. We propose values for the fluorescent yields of Al and Si that are compatible with recent results and can be incorporated in the computations of K X-ray production cross sections.