Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA)

Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) is an important application of of nuclear reactions that is a multi-, major-, minor-, and trace-element analytical method for the accurate and precise determination of elemental concentrations in a materials. Sensitivity for certain elements are below nglevel. The method is based on the detection and measurement of characteristic gamma rays emitted from radioactive isotopes produced in the sample upon irradiation with neutrons.  High resolution germanium semiconductor detector gives specific information about elements.  Some 60 elements are routinely analyzed by the NAA center in Cornell University. It analyzed samples from agriculture, geology, medicine, to oceanography, serving various discipline and industries.  There are other centers carrying out routine NAA services for their clients too.