Qualitative and quantitative interpretation of gamma-ray spectra in activation analysis

Abstract

A method is presented for the automatic identification of the elements present in a sample and the calculation of the corresponding concentrations from the energies and peak areas determined by a spectrum analysis computer program. A preliminary interpretation list is produced in which the possible isotopes are given for each peak in the spectrum. This list is based only on the gamma-ray energies and half-lives of the isotopes. A careful analysis of this list yields groups of identified elements at four different significance levels. The determination of the corresponding concentration is based on the single-comparator method. The procedure is included in an automatic activation analysis system but can also be used separately.