Prompt γ-ray analysis with reactor neutrons (review)

A neutron-induced prompt gamma-ray analysis (PGA) has recently evolved as a non-destructive analytical method which can determine light elements, such as H and B, and multi-elements as a result of increased analytical sensitivities by using low-energy guided neutron beams of nuclear reactors. Firstly, the principle, characteristics and history of reactor neutron-based PGA is described; then, the characteristics of PGA systems which are classified into internal, beam and guided beam types are described. Moreover, the basics and standardization for the elemental determination in PGA are described and various applications of PGA are reviewed. Finally, micro-sample, spot and spatial-distribution analyses of elements using a cold-neutron micro beam produced by a neutron lens are described and the future development of the method is predicted.