Efficient set-up for determination of elemental content in liquid samples using neutron activation analysis

A simple, sensitive and fast procedure for analysis of liquid samples called flowing sample neutron activation analysis has been established based on measurement of short-lived radionuclides. This newly developed method involves continuous flowing of sample between an irradiation cell and measurement station. This arrangement makes it easy to analyze a large volume of sample and thus preconcentration steps can be avoided. Moreover, flowing sample technique feeds detector with fresh irradiated material, which maintains constant dead time during whole time of measurement; hence improves accuracy of the method. The method was tested for its repeatability, detection limits and sensitivity. Obtained limits of detection are favorably comparable with those already published in literature. (author)