Pt and Au analysis by delayed x-ray spectrometry after fast neutron activation

A novel technique for the determination of Pt and Au at low concentrations is described. The method involves x-ray spectrometry preceded by fast neutron activation of the stable isotopes of the elements of interest. The investigation formed the basis of a feasibility study which was utilized to establish if the application could be developed for the routine off-line determination of Pt and Au. It is shown that the method does not necessarily depend on the sample matrix, and that it proves to be a strong rival to conventional activation analysis. (author) 6 refs.; 3 figs.; 1 tab