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Large-sample neutron activation analysis in mass balance and nutritional studies
Albert Van de Wiel1, Menno Blaauw2
1Delft University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Radiation Science and Technology, Clinical Medicine and Isotopes for Health, Mekelweg 15, 2629 JB Delft, the Netherlands.
Journal of Nutritional Science
|April 25, 2018
Summary
Large-sample neutron activation analysis (NAA) offers accurate measurements of toxic and trace elements in large food samples (kilograms). This method is reliable even when elements are unevenly distributed, proving valuable for food research and mass balance studies.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Food Science
- Nuclear Techniques
Background:
- Accurate elemental analysis in food is crucial for nutrition and safety.
- Traditional methods often require small, homogenized samples, limiting their applicability.
- Heterogeneous element distribution in food matrices poses a significant analytical challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and validate large-sample neutron activation analysis (NAA) for food analysis.
- To provide a reliable method for measuring elements in large food samples (grams to kilograms).
- To address limitations of traditional techniques when dealing with inhomogeneous samples.
Main Methods:
- Adaptation of neutron activation analysis (NAA) to accommodate large sample sizes.
- Application of large-sample NAA to measure elemental concentrations in food matrices.
- Validation of accuracy and reliability for both toxic and trace elements.
Main Results:
- Large-sample NAA demonstrated accuracy in measuring elements in samples up to kilograms.
- The technique is effective regardless of the element's distribution within the food matrix.
- Successful application in food research and mass balance studies was confirmed.
Conclusions:
- Large-sample NAA is a robust and accurate alternative for elemental analysis in food.
- It overcomes the limitations of traditional methods concerning sample size and homogeneity.
- This technique holds significant potential for advancing food research and nutritional studies.
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