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Prompt gamma-ray analysis using cold and thermal guided neutron beams at JAERI

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Abstract

A highly sensitive neutron-induced prompt γ-ray analysis (PGA) system, usable at both cold and thermal neutron beam guides of JRR-3M, has been constructed. The system was designed to achieve the lowest γ-ray background by using lithium fluoride tiles as neutron shielding, by placing the samples in a He atmosphere and by using a Ge-bismuth germanate detector system for Compton suppression. The γ-ray spectrometer can acquire three modes of spectra simultaneously: single, Compton suppression, and pair modes. Because of the low-energy guided neutron beams and the low-background system, analytical sensitivities and detection limits better than those in usual PGA systems have been achieved. Boron and multielemental determination by a comparative standardization have been investigated, and accuracy, precision, and detection limits for the elements in various materials were evaluated. The system has been applied to the determination of B and multielements in samples of various fields such as medical, environmental, and geological sciences.

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Yonezawa, C. Prompt gamma-ray analysis using cold and thermal guided neutron beams at JAERI. Biol Trace Elem Res 71, 407–413 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02784228

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