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Short-time neutron activation gamma-ray spectroscopy
K M Ochsenkühn1, N N Papadopoulos, P A Kontopoulos
1National Center for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Aghia Paraskevi Attikis, 15 310, Athens, Greece.
Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Optimized experimental conditions enable high-throughput, sensitive, and accurate short-time instrumental neutron activation analysis. Techniques like loss-free counting and selective preseparation overcome challenges from high initial count rates and matrix interferences.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Nuclear Chemistry
Background:
- Short-time instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) faces challenges with high initial count rates and matrix interferences.
- Achieving high throughput, sensitivity, and accuracy requires overcoming these limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present optimized experimental conditions for short-time INAA.
- To demonstrate methods for achieving high throughput, sensitivity, and accuracy without matrix interferences.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a loss-free counting system to manage high initial count rates.
- Employing source-detector distance variation, cyclic, and cumulative activation to compensate for short-lived nuclide decay.
- Implementing ion exchange for selective element preseparation and neutron spectrum optimization (e.g., epithermal neutron activation) to reduce matrix spectral interferences.
Main Results:
- Successful management of high initial counting rates through loss-free counting.
- Compensation for low counting statistics of short-lived nuclides via optimized counting geometries and activation strategies.
- Significant reduction of matrix spectral interferences through preseparation and neutron spectrum tailoring.
Conclusions:
- Optimized experimental conditions allow for high-throughput, sensitive, and accurate short-time INAA.
- A combination of techniques effectively addresses challenges posed by high count rates and matrix effects.
- The presented methods enhance the applicability of INAA for rapid elemental analysis.