Multielemental analysis of some soils in Karaman by PAA using a cLINAC

In this analytical work, some components (Sr, Ni, Mg, Fe, Zr, Cd, As, Ca, Br, Rb, Mn, I, Zn, Pb, Tl, U and Ba) of soil samples collected in different locations in the surroundings of Karaman, Turkey were determined by photon activation analysis (PAA). This method is based on photonuclear reactions. (γ,n), (γ,2n), (γ,γ') and (γ,p)-type reactions have been observed. The samples were irradiated with bremsstrahlung photons produced by a clinical electron linear accelerator (cLINAC) for up to about 85 min. The PAA results were compared with those obtained by X-ray fluorescence (XRF). - Highlights: • (γ,n), (γ,2n), (γ,γ') and (γ,p)-type photonuclear reactions were observed. • 17 elements in the activated soil samples were detected and quantified by PAA. • The results of PAA are in good correlation with those of XRF measurements. • The cLINAC exhibits considerable potential for analytical work and experimental nuclear physics.