Experimental determination of test-sensitivity of instrumental neutron activation analysis using impulse graphite reactor IGR

Abstract

The relevance of the work consists in the necessity to use nondestructive testing methods when searching and exploring underground resources in extractive industry as well as at ecological researches. The main aim of the study: explanation of the choice of IGR reactor in the capacity of neutrons source for INAA method, consistent with the conditions of radiation, physical and technical features of the reactor. The methods used in the study: instrumental neutron activation analysis; choice of optimal irradiation regimes of samples of mineral raw materials; preparation and radiation of samples in an experimental channel of IGR reactor; processing and analysis of experimental findings. Scientific novelty: In the conduct of the adoption of instrumental neutron# activation analysis (INAA), based on the IGR Pulse Graphite Reactor with its unique technical characteristics, the terms to introduce the method are specified for elemental analysis of samples of mineral raw materials and external medium objects. The results: The authors have selected optimal modes of irradiation of samples of mineral raw materials. The paper introduces the results of determining sensitivity of the instrumental neutron activation analysis method and response rate of radiation capture. Sensitivity analysis of the instrumental neutron activation analysis method for specific conditions of radiation and measurements was conducted. The paper introduces the experimentally determined inaccuracy in measurements of peaks area of the total absorption and the results of comparison of the calculated and experimental values of the reaction rate (n,γ) for the elements-analytes.

Keywords

• reactor IGR
• neutron activation analysis
• sensitivity of the method
• rate of reaction
• elements-analytes
• neutronic calculations