Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA) is a process used with a variety of materials to determine the concentrations of elements in a sample. By bombarding the sample with neutrons, nucleuses of the composite elements are activated, causing the formation of radioactive isotopes to form. These isotopes are then determined via a spectra of the emissions compared to known radioactive emissions and decay paths for each respective element.
Neutron Activation Analysis is a unique analysis method in that the sampled material is not destroyed in the process, however, it may remain radioactive for many years due to the difference in the various half-lives of the generated radioactive isotopes.
In many instances, only one-twentieth of a gram is sufficient to gather an accurate sample, which can come from many different specimen types. Material is analysed from a variety of scientific and technical fields, including such diverse studies as testing semiconductors for purity, to determining the elements in certain archaeology artifacts. NAA is particularly useful to archaeology, as the sample is not destroyed in the process. Neutron activation analysis is also utilized in soil sciences and geology to assist in understanding the various processes by which rocks are formed by analyzing the prevalence of rare earth elements as well as other trace elements in a sample.
In addition to taking a carefully selected sample, proper packaging is needed to ensure a successful analysis. This is accomplished by encapsulating a sample either in quartz or in a high purity linear polyethylene, before being irradiated in a reactor at a known neutron flux.
LA Container offers two container sizes in the Polyvial line that are specifically engineered for neutron activation analysis. The EP-338 and EP-290 plastic containers are manufactured with a specialized NAA polyethylene homopolymer that features good impact strength. The design of these plastic vials includes thicker walls that provide good tensile strength to protect samples during transport and activation. With such small samples needed for accurate results, even these small NAA containers will be useful for most applications.
To better protect samples stored in EP-290, consider utilizing the Flex-a-Top FT-14 hinged rectangle container to store the Polyvials during transport and storage. When fitted with an additional foam insert, the entire container becomes both safer and more organized.
A similar setup can be made by using the FT-3, again using a specially cut foam insert, to protect samples stored in the EP-338 container. This solution provides many transport, storage and labeling options while protecting samples from excess movement and damage.
Sample IDs, catalogue IDs, and descriptions can be written on either custom or blank labels placed on either the FT-3 or FT-14 case.
For more detailed specs regarding the qualities of our NAA polyethylene plastic, or for any inquiries about our products in general, please contact us.
Kyle
Why is a polythene used for packaging …why not use something else(inorganic)