A preliminary test for the application of the k 0 standardization method of neutron activation analysis at the Radiochemistry and Spectroscopy Laboratory of the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica

The application of the k0-standardization method of neutron activation analysis offers the great advantage to perform multi-elemental analyses using a single element as a comparator. On the other hand, some knowledge of the neutron flux energy distribution is mandatory. Recently, neutron flux parameters f and α in three irradiation channels of the TRIGA Mark II nuclear reactor in Pavia were measured for the first time to allow the application of the k0-standardization method at the Radiochemistry and Spectroscopy Laboratory of the Istituto Nazionale di Ricerca Metrologica. In this framework, a preliminary test was performed by analyzing a set of samples irradiated in Central Channel, including a number of elements prepared with mono-elemental solutions and a reference material. The results of all the selected elements were in agreement with the expected value and confirmed the applicability of the k0-standardization method in Central Channel.