Neutron-radiation analysis for boron deposit prospecting

The basic principles of neutron-radiation determination of boron content in samples, as well as the operating principle and possibilities of the facilities developed for performing neutron-radiation analyses are described. The facility provides low sensitivity thresholds and high accuracy of determining some elements. 252Gf was used as a neutron source. Gamma radiation was recorded with a GeLi detector of volume 35 cm3. Spectral analysis and processing of results were carried out by means of multichannel analyzing systems. The analysis procedure is described and the results of boron determination in bore samples excavated from prospecting boreholes are presented. The data obtained are compared with those of spectral analysis. The conclusion is made that, in future, the method of neutron-radiation analysis could be used for boron determining in field conditions in rock samples and when performing measurements in boreholes. The high sensitivity of the method permits to reliably and quickly detect primary and secondary aureoles of boron scattering