Neutron Activation Analysis Method Research Articles

Determination of Minor and Trace Elements in Breast Milk of Lactating Mothers in Early Lactation from Tehran, Iran Using Neutron Activation Analysis Method.

This study aimed to evaluate the concentrations of both essential and non-essential elements in the breast milk of lactating mothers from Tehran, Iran, during the colostrum period. Neutron activation analysis (NAA) was used to measure the element concentrations. Additionally, the study assessed how these element concentrations were influenced by maternal factors such as age and economic status. Breast milk samples were collected from 95 lactating mothers, aged 18 to 41, during the early lactation phase, specifically within the colostrum period (2-7 days postpartum). The colostrum milk samples were freeze-dried, powdered, and irradiated at the Tehran Research Reactor for neutron activation analysis (NAA). This method was used to measure the concentrations of essential elements-calcium (Ca), potassium (K), sodium (Na), chlorine (Cl), and iodine (I)-as well as non-essential elements-aluminum (Al), bromine (Br), and rubidium (Rb). Descriptive statistics, including mean, median, maximum, minimum, and standard deviation, were calculated for each element. Statistical analyses, such as Pearson's correlation, were performed to assess relationships between the concentrations of various elements. Additionally, t-tests and p-values were employed to evaluate differences in element levels across maternal age groups (17-34 years vs. 35-45 years) and economic status (high/middle vs. low). The mean concentrations of the elements in dry breast milk powder samples were: Al = 6.9mg/kg, Br = 11.9mg/kg, Ca = 2.757mg/g, Cl = 7.836mg/g, I = 1.22mg/kg, K = 5.853mg/g, Na = 4.932mg/g, and Rb = 3.69mg/kg. Significant correlations were found between element pairs, such as Na-Cl, Br-Cl, Na-Br, Rb-K, and I-Cl. Maternal age significantly influenced bromine concentrations, with older mothers showing 22% higher Br levels (p = 0.038), while calcium levels were 15% lower but not statistically significant (p = 0.20). Maternal economic status significantly impacted calcium and potassium concentrations, with higher levels observed in mothers from better economic conditions (p = 0.02 and p = 0.025, respectively). This study highlights the elemental composition of breast milk samples of lactating mothers in Tehran and shows that maternal factors, such as age and economic status, can significantly influence the concentrations of specific elements in breast milk.

Major and trace elements determination in organic and conventional Moroccan vegetables using the k0-standardisation method of neutron activation analysis

The aim of the present work is the determination of different essential (minor and trace) elements found in five Moroccan vegetables collected from large commercial markets in Kenitra city, Morocco, and in some organic vegetables which were traditionally grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers, in a plot located in the rural commune of Dar Laaslouji, 48 km from Kenitra city. The k0-standardisation method of the Neutron Activation Analysis (k0-INAA) using the TRIGA Mark II research reactor of 2 MW at the National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology (CNESTEN) and gamma-ray spectroscopy facility were employed. For quality control, the accuracy of measurements has been investigated using certified reference materials (IAEA-336 lichens, and NIST SRM 1547 peach leaves) which were analyzed simultaneously with the samples. Good agreement was found between certified and determined values. The primary results are presented and discussed for the concentration of minor and trace elements in some vegetables (tomatoes, carrots, green peppers, cilantro and mint), that are widely used in Moroccan meals.

Development and application of a comprehensive measurement equation for the direct comparator standardization method of Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis

A comprehensive model equation for the measurement of elemental mass fractions in solid materials using the direct standardization method of Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis was developed. The extensive modelling established for the single comparator standardization was revised and changed for the direct standardization to obtain a complete mathematical description of the measurand by physical and chemical quantities having dimensions in SI units. The model equation is presented both in case measurement and standard samples are measured in the same γ-counting position and in different γ-counting positions. The first was successfully applied for the quantitative determination of As mass fraction in a seafood matrix with a percent level relative uncertainty. The SI traceability of the result is established by a traceable standard via the measurement equation and the uncertainty budget compiled to highlight the input quantities that contribute most to the combined uncertainty.

Development of a Neutron Activation Analysis Method for Studying the Elemental Composition of Atherosclerotic Plaques

Development of a Neutron Activation Analysis Method for Studying the Elemental Composition of Atherosclerotic Plaques

The potential of NAA and ICP-MS for determining soil dispersibility in relation to landslide incidents

Dispersive soils pose significant challenges due to their inherent tendency to rapidly respond to the presence of water, resulting in erosion and heightened susceptibility to landslides. The inclusion of sodium (Na) onto the surface of soil clay particles results in the attenuation of the electrochemical interactions between the dispersed soil, leading to the repulsion and subsequent migration of the clay particles away from one another. This study employed Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) to assess the Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) and Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP) as indicators of soil dispersibility. The results indicate that soils containing montmorillonite clay mineral exhibit greater values of SAR > 11 and ESP > 20 in comparison to soils containing other clay minerals i.e. kaolinite, illite, and vermiculite. The calculated SAR and ESP values obtained from both analyses demonstrate a notable agreement, indicating a positive correlation. In conclusion, it is apparent that both NAA and ICP-MS method has the capability to be applied for the purpose of predicting soil dispersibility in landslide-prone regions of Malaysia.

Determination of strategic metals in graphitic formations by the methods of neutron activation analysis with a californium source

Determination of strategic metals in graphitic formations by the methods of neutron activation analysis with a californium source

Optimization and Applications of Instrumental and Preconcentration Neutron Activation Analysis Methods for Rapid Determination of Selected REE by Utilizing their Short‐Lived Activation Products**

AbstractDetermination of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) using spectroscopic methods is challenging. Conventional Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) method utilizing Pneumatic Carrier Facility (PCF) of Dhruva research reactor has been optimized with the short‐lived isotopes such as 161Gd, 165mDy and 153/155Sm for quantification of Gd, Dy and Sm respectively. Such isotopes are difficult to observe by conventional INAA with longer cooling periods owing to their very short half‐lives (1–3 mins). In this work, such isotopes are not only observed but also utilized as activation product for rapid determination of these REEs. The standardized method has been utilized for the first time in liquid samples involving nuclear fuel like U3O8 wherein TBP/n‐dodecane has been applied for chemical separation of Uranium prior to analysis. The INAA method has also been applied for validating the stoichiometry of Gd in Gd3+ co‐doped Zn2P2O7:Tb3+ green emitting solid‐state phosphors, which plays a very pivotal role in sensitizing the terbium ion in its performance for solid state lighting. We believe with huge current demand of REEs in research, science and technology; INAA can be a game changer wherever needed for quantification with high precision and accuracy and can also be extended to other REEs of interest.

Characterization of the neutron flux of a 4.3 Ci Am-Be irradiation site using the cadmium ratio k0 method

In order to utilize the capabilities of the neutron activation analysis (NAA) method, a specialized irradiation unit was installed and operated at Damghan University with a 4.3 Ci Am-Be source. In this study, for the mentioned unit, using the cadmium ratio technique from k0 standardization methods, the neutron flux parameters were determined. Gold (197Au) and Indium (115In) were used as monitors for the irradiations, and their activities were measured with a NaI detector. The obtained values for shape factor of the epithermal neutron spectrum α in paraffin and water moderators are α = 0.0181 ± 0.0050 and α = 0.0182 ± 0.0050, respectively. The thermal to epithermal flux ratio values show that the heating rate for fast neutrons in paraffin and water moderators reached 99.1 % and 98.7 %, respectively. The measured values and their precision indicate that both moderators are suitable for use in the current configuration.

Natural and Artificial Radionuclides Distribution in Surface Soil in Baghdad International Airport Region

This is the first time that radiological assessment achieved in the Baghdad International Airport (BIA) in Iraq. Twenty-three sites were sampled from upper 5 cm of the surface soil within the BIA to be analyzed for the radioactivity of natural radionuclides Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40 and the artificial radionuclide, Cs-137 using gamma spectroscopy based on Hyper pure Germanium detector (HPGe). Ten samples out of the 23 samples were analyzed for U-238, U-235 using the Neutron Activation Analysis method. To determine the percentage of DU [DU (%)] which is calculated from the 235U/238U isotope ratio. The study showed that there is a possibility of slight contamination with depleted uranium in two sites out of the 23 sites that were examined. The average activities of Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40 in the study area are within the limits of world averages, while there are evidences that new feeding of Cs-137 in the region, reaches about 19 Bq/kg, from the new global fallout after Chernobyl accident. The measured and calculated absorbed doses in the study area were within international limits and no need for farther monitoring. Annual effective dose equivalent due to resuspension of Ra-226 is estimated to be 1.0E-10Sv, and this value is negligible compared with 1 mSv permissible value for public recommended by ICRP.

Application of internal mono standard neutron activation analysis method in elemental analysis of car glasses for forensic study

The use of nuclear techniques for elemental analysis has been successfully developed in many laboratories in the IAEA Member States, including Vietnam. Nuclear techniques have also been proven to be extremely powerful in provenancing samples relevant to forensics. In the framework of the CRP project on Enhancing Nuclear Analytical Techniques to Meet the Needs of Forensic Sciences (IAEA CRP F11021), a total of 19 elemental concentrations in 48 car glass samples has been determined by the internal monostandard neutron activation analysis (IM-NAA) method. In this work, obtained results from the statical analysis indicated that rare earth elements (La, Ce, Sm, Eu, Tb, Yb), transition (Sc, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn) and major (Al, Na, Fe, Ca) elements play a significant role in the group study of car glasses.

Determination of Chromium Mineral in Foodstuffs in Indonesia using INAA Method

The concentration of the element chromium (Cr) was determined in 76 types of food ingredients from four provinces in Indonesia. The element Cr is one of the essential elements needed by the human body for physiological processes. Although the amount needed for Cr is relatively small, this mineral is very important for the insulin hormone to function properly. Chromium deficiency can result in decreased insulin sensitivity, glucose intolerance and an increased risk of diabetes. The Cr element was determined using the Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) method in the GA. Siwabessy Multipurpose Research Reactor. The reactor which is located in the Puspiptek area has a thermal neutron flux of around 5.47 x 1013 n.cm-2s-1 . Bombardment Cr-50 in foodstuffs samples by thermal neutrons will produce Cr-51 through the n, nuclear reaction. The radiosotope Cr-51. The radiosotope Cr-51 which is the result of thermal neutron activation has a half-life of 27.7 days. The single energy peak of the Cr- 51 gamma-ray can be observed at 320.08 keV. The results showed that cassava leaves, melinjo leaves, watercress, sweet potato leaves, papaya leaves, ipomoea aquatica, kenikir, pumpkin leaves, spinach and mushrooms are foodstuffs rich in Cr compared to other foodstuffs. Foodstuffs from Pandeglang Regency-Banten Province have relatively higher Cr concentrations than other three locations.The concentration of Cr in foodstuffs ranges from 0.039 to 5.244 µg/g.

Atmospheric air pollution of a mining town in the Kuzbass region by toxic metals

The paper analyses the results of active biomonitoring of atmospheric air pollution in the mining town of the Kuzbass region by the most toxic metals. The epiphytic moss Pylaisia polyantha (Hedw.) B. S. G. was used as a bioindicators; determination of metal content in moss samples was carried out using neutron activation analysis and atomic emission spectrometry methods. Based on the results of the study, spatial distributions for pollution levels of the most toxic metals were plotted and their sources were identified.

POSSIBILITIES OF NEUTRON ACTIVATION ANALYSIS FOR STUDYING THE CORROSION BEHAVIOR OF METALLIC MATERIALS IN MOLTEN SALTS

For the BREST-OD-300 reactor facility [1, 2], the technology for evaluating mixed nitride uranium-plutonium spent economical fuel is being determined [3–9]. To separate MNUP SNF from fuel claddings made of materials with high radiation resistance – ferritic-martensitic steel EP-823 [10–16], it is planned to use pyrometallurgical grades of “soft chlorination” [17]. When alloying and impurity elements of steel EP-823 are dissolved in molten salts of eutectic composition based on lithium and potassium chlorides, the melt will be contaminated. For the same reason, the formation of volatile compounds will occur, with their further mass transfer from hot to cold sections of process equipment. When studying the corrosion behavior of metals and alloys in liquid media, the problem often arises of determining small amounts of dissolution products in solution. This problem arises, for example, the rate of dissolution of microimpurities. The sensitivity of the usual, traditional methods used in corrosion testing such as mass loss or colorimetric determination of corrosion products in solution is often insufficient to make appropriate measurements. In these cases, the most effective is the use of the radiochemical method of neutron activation analysis based on. qualitative and quantitative determination of chemical elements, based on the measurement of the radiation characteristics of radionuclides formed during the irradiation of materials with neutrons. This paper presents the results of a study of the corrosion behavior and mass transfer of corrosion products of EP-823 steel pre-irradiated in the IVV-2M research nuclear reactor in molten salts 2KCl–3LiCl and 2KCl–3LiCl–PbCl2 at temperatures of 500 and 650°C for 24 h. It is shown that the method of neutron activation analysis can be used to study the corrosion behavior of EP-823 steel in molten salts of various compositions.

Irradiation and analysis of Uranyl Nitrate solutions in different Uranium concentrations for use in subcritical reactors for 99Mo production

Different Uranyl Nitrate Solution concentrations and undiluted Uranyl Nitrate Hexahydrate were irradiated in the Kartini TRIGA Mk II reactor to qualitatively assess the radioisotope production feasibility in different neutron fluxes within reactor irradiation facilities. Multiple radioisotope gamma spectrums’ were obtained using the Neutron Activation Analysis method without chemical separation prior to detection. The presented methodology serves as a preliminary experiment toward the Subcritical Assembly for 99Mo Production (SAMOP) application in the Kartini reactor. The results show that the concentration and crystallization of Uranyl Nitrate can change the detectability of some radioisotopes in gamma spectrometry. Through a combination of depletion calculation and standardized measurement, some dominant isotopes’ gamma peaks from irradiated Uranyl Nitrate are identifiable, and their activity is quantifiable. Although chemical separation is inseparable from fission product analysis using gamma spectrometry, the presented direct measurement establishes a practical and rapid assessment method for the next isotope production development in the Kartini reactor.

Investigation of Elemental Deposition in Lamdong Province (Vietnam) by the Moss Biomonitoring Method and Neutron Activation Analysis

The results of an investigation of heavy metal air pollution in Lamdong province (Vietnam) using the moss biomonitoring method are presented in this paper. Barbula Indica moss samples were collected at 30 different locations in Dalat and Baoloc, two major cities of Lamdong province. The concentrations of 10 heavy metal and metalloid elements, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Zn, As, Hf, and Ta in the collected moss samples, were determined by the neutron activation analysis method using the nuclear reactor at the Nuclear Research Institute in Dalat. The results show that the air in Lamdong province may be polluted by Mn and is moderately polluted by Sc, V, Cr, Fe, Co, Zn, As, Hf and Ta. The main sources of heavy metal pollution in the Lamdong atmosphere may be soil dust, traffic emissions, industry, bauxite mining and refining, chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and combustion of coal and oil. By comparing heavy element concentrations in the moss from Lamdong with that of Hanoi, Thainguyen, and several European countries, it is found that heavy metal air pollution in Lamdong is much lower than in Hanoi and Thainguyen and much higher than in the European countries.

Determination of k0 factors of short-lived nuclides 46mSc and 110Ag for the k0-NAA

The k0-standardization neutron activation analysis method has successfully determined the mass fraction of elements of interest using around a hundred analytical radionuclides. However, several very short-lived nuclides with half-life less than 100 s have not been used at Dalat research reactor. One of the reasons is that the values of k0-factors of these nuclides are significantly different. Therefore, this work focused on re-determination and evaluation of k0-factors of very short-lived nuclides 110Ag (T1/2 = 24 s) and 46mSc (T1/2 = 18.75 s). The results of determination of the short-lived nuclides revealed that k0-factor of 110Ag is significantly difference between the existing data and the obtained results in this work. The evaluation of the k0-factors was done by using the obtained results for application of k0-NAA for NIST-1566b and NIST-2711A standard reference materials.

Determination of nutrient and toxic elements in food reference materials by suspension preparation and TXRF analysis

There is a need to maintain nutrient element adequacy through food consumption. Due to the risk of toxic element exposure during food consumption, an accurate and precise characterisation approach is required. This makes the development of a simpler and faster procedure a great concern, especially in Indonesia, where time-consuming methods such as atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) are still dominant. Therefore, ththe present work aimed to evaluate a suspension technique for food matrices in combination with TXRF S4-TSTAR (total reflection X-ray fluorescence) in Indonesia. The examination focused on standard reference materials (SRM) such as 1570a spinach leaves (SL), 1548 typical diet (TD), 1566b oyster tissue (OT), and 8418 bovine muscle (BM). The concentration of elements was determined by mixing each SRM with internal standard gallium (Ga). This was followed by the comparison of the concentration and sensitivity of Ga to each element in SRM. The TXRF performance was evaluated by quantifying nutrients such as calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and toxic element namely arsenic (As). The trueness and precision were calculated through %bias, %recovery, coefficient of variance (%CV), and HorRat ratio (r). The recovery of all elements in SRMs was within 81.20 - 103.35%, except for SRM TD and BM which were 61.73 - 91.70 and 73.78 - 99.41%, respectively. The CV of all SRMs was within the range of 0.63 - 9.54%, except for SRM BM and HorRat ratios which were 2.10 - 25.22 and 0.12 - 3.21%. Based on the results, the concentration of Zn was in good agreement with the primary method of neutron activation analysis (NAA). This showed that TXRF S4-TSTAR had good trueness and precision on SRM food matrices, and could be a promising method to be applied for element characterisation in Indonesian nutritional research.

Utilization of k0-standardisation method of neutron activation analysis for determining the major and trace elements of medicinal plants from the Senhaja Srair region of Morocco

Utilization of k0-standardisation method of neutron activation analysis for determining the major and trace elements of medicinal plants from the Senhaja Srair region of Morocco

Characterization of irradiation channels in the carousel of TRIGA Mark I IPR-R1 research reactor, Brazil, aiming at the application of k 0-standardization method of neutron activation analysis.

New values of neutron fluxes and spectral parameters f and α were determined experimentally in all irradiation devices of the TRIGA Mark I IPR-R1 nuclear research reactor at Nuclear Technology Development Centre (CDTN), Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Sets of monitors Au, Fe, Zn and Zr were irradiated bare and Cd-covered, according to "Cd-ratio for multi-monitor" method. Values were validated by analysing the certified reference material BCR-320R irradiated in chosen channels. The calculations were made based on irradiation channel values and the average values of the Carousel. The results of E n -score point out that the k 0-method is producing reliable results. From now on, the values of mass fractions in several matrices, the production and studies with radioisotopes will be more accurate and the activities calculated more precisely.

Возможности инструментального нейтронно-активационного анализа для определения и контроля извлечения скандия из золы ТЭЦ

The possibility of determining the scandium content in ash and slag waste and monitoring the effectiveness of operations in the ash processing by the method of instrumental neutron activation analysis was shown. The scandium content and elemental composition of ash and slag waste from thermal power plants and intermediate products of their processing are presented. An increased content of scandium in the magnetic fraction of ash was established.