Neutron capture γ-ray techniques for iron and gold in mixtures

Abstract

The feasibility of utilizing prompt γ-rays from thermal neutron capture as a non-destructive technique for the identification and estimation of gold in mixtures has been studied. Thermal neutrons from the University of Maryland reactor and a 40-cm 3 lithium-drifted germanium detector were applied with promising results. The high-energy capture γ-ray spectra for mixtures of gold and abundant elements, such as silicon, iron, calcium and aluminum were measured. A 'Capture γ-Ray Sensitivity Index' is introduced to provide an indication of relative sensitivity for detection of elements by this technique.