The determination of some trace elements in rainwater by neutron activation analysis

A routine method for the determination of 12 elements in small rain water samples is presented. Instrumental neutron-activation analysis is applied for the determination of Mn, Na, Cl, V and Al. Bromine and iodine are isolated by isotope exchange between the irradiated water and a solution of Br2 resp. I2 in CCl4. Extraction with APDC/MIBK is used for the separation of the short-lived isotopes of Co, V, Cr, Zn and In. Mn, Al, V, Cl, Br, I and Cu were determined in rainwater samples taken at regular time intervals during a shower of rain. The intensity of the rain and the measured concentration of V over this shower is given. Similar curves were obtained for the other elements. (T.G.)