Abstract
A quality check for an automated system of analyzing large sets of neutron activated samples has been developed. Activated samples are counted with an HPGe detector, in conjunction with an automated sample changer and spectral analysis tools, controlled by the Canberra GENIE 2K and REXX software. After each sample is acquired and analyzed, a Microsoft Visual Basic program imports the results into a template Microsoft Excel file where the final concentrations, uncertainties, and detection limits are determined. Standard reference materials are included in each set of 40 samples as a standard quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) test. A select group of sample spectra are also visually reviewed to check the peak fitting routines. A reference spectrum was generated in MCNP 4c2 using an F8, pulse-height, tally with a detector model of the actual detector used in counting. The detector model matches the detector resolution, energy calibration, and counting geometry. The generated spectrum also contained a radioisotope matrix that was similar to what was expected in the samples. This spectrum can then be put through the automated system and analyzed along with the other samples. The automated results are then compared to expected results for QA/QC assurance.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
S. Landsberger, K. Jackman, L. Welch, Neutron activation analysis using excel files and Canberra GENIE-2000, J. Radioanal. Nucl. Chem., 264 (2005) 235.
R. J. Gehrke, R. P. Keegan, P. J. Taylor, Specifications for today’s coaxial HPGe detectors, ANS Annual Meeting, Milwaukee, WI, 2001.
R. L. Metzger, K. A. Van Riper, K. J. Kearfott, Radionuclide depth distribution by collimated spectroscopy, ANS Topical Meeting, Santa Fe, NM, 2002.
G. Knoll, Radiation Detection and Measurement, 2nd ed., John Wiley & Sons, New York, 1989, pp. 50; 117; 370.
J. Rodenas, V. Serradell, J. Ortiz, L. Ballesteros, Influence of the Ge inactive layer thickness on detector calibration simulation for environmental radioactive samples using the Monte Carlo method, 3rd Annual Symp. on Sensitivity Analysis of Model Output, Madrid, Spain, June 18–20, 2001.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Jackman, K.R., Biegalski, S.R. Monte Carlo generated spectra for QA/QC of automated NAA routine. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 271, 207–211 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-007-0131-3
Received:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-007-0131-3