**Abstract**

This study uses Itrax X-ray fluorescence element data available for Samoan sediment cores, obtained from three separate locations after the 2009 tsunami in this region, to identify its elemental characteristics in the coastal landscape. Normalization of data using Al reveals a distinct elevated elemental signature for this event at sites which had experienced inundation. This provides benchmarks for identifying comparable signatures in the core profiles which likely represent past tsunamis to have inundated each site. Such information can support a better understanding of the frequency and longer-term threats posed by tsunamis in this region. The findings presented are consistent with benchmark tsunami Itrax observations at Little Pigeon Bay following the 2016 Kaikōura Tsunami in New Zealand. Furthermore, they reinforce the normalization of Itrax element data using Al to interpret tsunami episodes in sediment cores, in addition to using high resolution core scanning as an effective non-destructive tool to screen likely tsunami deposits for more targeted multi-proxy analysis.

**Keywords:** sediment cores, tsunami deposits, Itrax core scanner, X-ray fluorescence, element characteristics
