A small D-T neutron generator with a high pulse rate is used for the in vivo measurement of body carbon, oxygen and hydrogen. The core of the neutron generator is a 13 crn-long Zetatron tube pulsed at a rate of 10 kHz delivering 10^-104 neutrons per pulse. A targetcurrent feedback system regulates the source of the accelerator to assure constant neutron output. Carbon is measured by detecting the 4.44 MeV yrays from inelastic scattering. The short half-life of the 4.44 MeV state of carbon requires detection of the y-rays during the 10 us neutron pulse. Generators with low pulsing rate were found inappropriate for carbon measurements because of their low duty-cycle (high neutron output during the pulse). In vivo measurements were performed with normal volunteers using a scanning bed facility for a dose less than 25 mrem. This technique offers medical as well as general bulk analysis applications.
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