Investigations by INAA for the development of Natural Matrix Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) suitable for small sample analysis

Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) procedures were optimized for the analysis of small (1 mg) solid samples. This process included sample handling as well as detailed evaluation of high rate counting techniques, also in conjunction with rapidly decaying sources, to establish the necessary analysis environment for the determination of large numbers of samples with high reproducibility. The investigated materials included biological materials such as peach leaves (SRM 1547), lichen, and bovine liver, as well as environmental materials such as urban particulate matter (SRM 1648), and deep ocean sediment. The analytical data obtained with the INAA procedures were used to determine homogeneity values. (author)