Experimental improvements of the sensitivity of neutron activation analysis for oxygen in metals

Abstract

With the purpose of providing a quick method directly suitable for oxygen determinations in various metals, the factors influencing accuracy and sensitivity of the16O(n, p)16N reaction have been investigated. The interferences caused by B, F and N have been studied. Pile-up effects and surface contaminations were lowered and matrix effects calculated. The background noise was kept at a minimum. The critical level of oxygen detection corresponds to 3 μg. The experimental procedure is useful down to the sub-μg/g level for oxygen determinations in metals and alloys.