[en] The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for elemental analysis which finds particular application in the on-line analyses of the specific energy (calorific value) of coal or coke on a conveyor, by the determination of carbon content. Analysis is achieved by comparison of γ rays resulting from inelastic scatter of neutrons and scatter of γ rays by substantially the same portion of coal or coke. Gamma-ray detectors feed single channel analysers or multi-channel analyser so that the carbon content is computed. Preferably 4, 43 MeV carbon γ rays are used and, in addition, one or more of moisture, ash, or hydrogen content of coal or coke can be measured using 2, 2 MeV hydrogen capture γ rays. (author)