A technique for improved detection limit in indirect neutron activation determination of boron

Using vanadium as the activable element, an indirect cyclic neutron activation technique for determination of boron in aqueous solutions has been developed. Experimental arrangement consisted of a 5 Ci Pu?Be based neutron irradiator and a 7.5 cm × 7.5 cm NaI/Tl/ detector. Recycling of vanadium between the irradiation source and the detector produced improved detection limit and sensitivity.     

Simultaneous neutron activation determination of alumina and silica in geological samples using a 5 Ci Pu-Be source

A neutron activation method of analysis for the determination of alumina and silica in geological samples has been developed and applied to some geological standards. Samples of about 4 g /in Cd shield/ were irradiated in the immediate vicinity of a 5 Ci Pu–Be source. Gamma spectra were acquired using a 7.5 cm × 7.5 cm NaI/Tl/ detector. The irradiate-transfer-count sequence was repeated five times in succession, counts being taken cumulatively. Recycling of the sample produced improved counting statistics and better reproducibility.