Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis of Steel

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Ahmad, W. | Ahmad, M. | Rajput, M.U.

Affiliations: Nuclear Physics Division, Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, Nilore, Islamabad, Pakistan

Note: [] Corresponding author. Fax: +92-51-9290275. E-mail: waqar@pinstech.org.pk; waqar13@hotmail.com

Abstract: The prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) facility at the Pakistan Research Reactor (PARR-I) has been used for elemental analysis of different kinds of materials. A high-efficiency, high-resolution gamma spectrometer based on a high-purity germanium detector is being employed in this study. The cadmium ratio of the incident neutron beam is 62 and the thermal neutron flux at the target position is about 1.5×106 n/cm2/s. The system is usually operated in Compton suppression mode to enhance peak to background ratio in the lower energy region (<1.5 MeV). The gamma ray detector is calibrated with standard radioactive sources up to 1.5 MeV. The aim of the present study is to determine the quantity of boron in reactor grade steels as well as in some other materials containing boron. The results of boron assessment in SS-304L and amorphous (Fe0.99Mo0.01)78Si9B13 alloy are also presented.

Keywords: PGNAA, gamma spectroscopy, HPGe detectors, elemental analysis, boron, steel

DOI: 10.1080/10238160310001657808

Journal: Journal of Neutron Research, vol. 11, no. 3, pp. 145-152, 2003