Neutron activation analysis of Se in bovine plasma samples

Elemental concentration of selenium in bovine plasma at parts-per-billion levels was determined using radiochemical neutron activation analysis (RNAA). This study was connected with the relation between the Enteque Seco, a toxic bovine calcinosis, and the Se status. The technique developed is based on the coprecipitation of Se with HgS. Good agreement with certified reference materials have been found. The values for the Se contents in normal bovine samples were in concordance with literature values.