Feasibility study on rare earth ion exchange resin saturation analysis based on PGNAA technique

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Nuclear Physics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Monitoring rare earth elements (REEs) saturation in resins is crucial for various industrial applications.
• Traditional methods may be time-consuming or less precise for in-situ monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of prompt gamma ray neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) for monitoring REEs saturation in resin.
• To establish and apply a PGNAA facility for analyzing Gadolinium (Gd) and Samarium (Sm) in resin samples.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a prompt gamma ray neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) technique with a D-T neutron generator.
• Employed Bismuth Germanate (BGO) and Helium-3 (³He) detectors for REE analysis.
• Implemented corrections for neutron self-shielding effects.

Main Results:

• Determined that Gd and Sm in resin approached saturation at approximately 400 minutes.
• Observed a satisfactory agreement between PGNAA results and those obtained from X-ray fluorescence (XRF) tests.
• Demonstrated the capability of PGNAA to monitor REEs saturation.

Conclusions:

• PGNAA is a sufficient and effective method for monitoring rare earth elements saturation in resins.
• The developed PGNAA facility provides accurate analysis of Gd and Sm enrichment.
• This technique offers a reliable alternative for saturation monitoring in materials science and chemical analysis.