Trendwatcher or trendsetter; 50 years of MTAA

Area of Science:

• Nuclear analytical chemistry
• Materials science
• Analytical chemistry

Background:

• Neutron activation analysis (NAA) emerged 60 years ago with the advent of nuclear reactors.
• The Modern Trends in Activation Analysis (MTAA) Conferences have significantly supported NAA's growth over the past 50 years.
• NAA has undergone substantial development, marked by innovations in radiation detection, data processing, and irradiation facilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical development and current status of NAA.
• To assess the challenges posed by alternative multi-trace element analysis techniques.
• To propose a future strategic direction for NAA, emphasizing its role in identifying and promoting key research areas.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of NAA development and its applications.
• Review of trends presented at MTAA conferences.
• Discussion of NAA's competitive landscape against alternative analytical techniques.

Main Results:

• NAA has reached a mature stage of development, with a focus shifting towards routine applications.
• Significant advancements in detection and data processing have characterized NAA's progress.
• NAA faces increasing competition from alternative multi-trace element analysis methods.

Conclusions:

• NAA's future development requires a shift from retrospective analysis to prospective trendsetting.
• Conferences like MTAA, in collaboration with the International Committee on Activation Analysis (ICAA), can guide future research and development.
• Identifying key areas and promoting focused development activities are crucial for NAA's continued relevance and expansion.