Energy dependence of photon-induced Kα and Kβ x-ray production cross-sections for some elements with 42≤Z≤68 in the energy range 38–80 keV

•The incident photon energy dependence of K x-rays production cross-sections of elements with 42≤Z≤68 was studied.•The experiments were performed for in the incident photon energy range 38–80 keV.•The K x-rays emitted from the elements were counted by HPGe detector coupled with a multichannel analyzer.•The intensity of K x-rays of secondary exciter sample falling on primary target (I0G) estimated using the L x-rays production cross-sections of Th and U.•The cross-sections decrease with increase in incident photon energy.•The experimental values are in agreement with theoretical calculated values.

The energy dependence of photon-induced Kα and Kβ x-ray production cross-sections for Mo, Ru, Pd, In, Sb, Cs, La, Pr, Sm, Tb and Er elements has been studied in the energy range of 38–80 keV with secondary excitation method. K x-ray intensities were measured using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) Spectrometry. The measurements have been made by observing the x-ray emissions, with the help of HPGe detector coupled with a multichannel analyzer. The areas of the Kα and Kβ spectral peaks, as well as the net peak areas, have been determined by a fitting process. The measured Kα and Kβ x-ray production cross-sections have been compared with calculated theoretical values in this energy regime. The results have been plotted versus excitation energy. The present experimental Kα and Kβ x-ray production cross-section values for all the elements were in general agreement with the theoretical values calculated using photoionization cross-sections, fluorescence yields and fractional rates based on Hartree–Slater potentials.