A preliminary test for the application of the k0 standardization method of neutron activation analysis at the Radiochemistry and Spectroscopy Laboratory of the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica

Abstract

The application of the k0-standardization method of neutron activation analysis offers the great advantage to perform multi-elemental analyses using a single element as a comparator. On the other hand, some knowledge of the neutron flux energy distribution is mandatory. Recently, neutron flux parameters f and α in three irradiation channels of the TRIGA Mark II nuclear reactor in Pavia were measured for the first time to allow the application of the k0-standardization method at the Radiochemistry and Spectroscopy Laboratory of the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica. In this framework, a preliminary test was performed by analyzing a set of samples irradiated in Central Channel, including a number of elements prepared with mono-elemental solutions and a reference material. The results of all the selected elements were in agreement with the expected value and confirmed the applicability of the k0-standardization method in Central Channel.