Analysis of traces at ORNL's new high-flux neutron activation laboratory

Abstract

A new facility for neutron activation analysis (3SAA) with a thermal flux of 5 x 10 cm" sec" has recently been installed at the ORNL High Flux Isotope Reactor. This unusually high flux together with a small computer and necessary software for 7-ray spectrometry with a Ge(Li) detector makes possible shorter irradiation, faster data analysis, and more economical analysis than is possible using more conventional facilities. We discuss features and tests of the new High-Flux NAA Laboratory, as well as results of comparator and absolute HAA of several types of environmental matrices for mercury, cadmium, bromine, arsenic, chlorine and sodium. WEW ANALYTICAL TRENDS AMD THE HEW LABORATORYThe present need in biomedical and environmental sciences is for determination of many trace elements in a variety of samples. Thus, one approach is to develop methods for multielement analysis at reasonable cost.** In such determinations, however, quality cannot be sacrificed for speed. Our aim is to develop techniques (preferably instrumental) for simultaneous analysis of numerous trace elements while concurrently reducing the price of quality serial analyses for specific elements by non-destructive methods.The new High-Flux BAA Laboratory can meet these demands. The very high thermal neutron flux permits determination of elements with extreme sensitivity, while also requiring shorter irradiations. Thus, a larger number of samples ca*i us irradiated than would be possible at a lower flux. Figure 1 shows the new facility in detail; particularly, the pneumatic transfer system. Hot-sample handling cell and counting room are provided along