Transfer time optimization of a rapid cyclic instrumental neutron activation analysis for trace element detection

A rapid pneumatic transfer system for the cyclic instrumental neutron activation has been indigenously designed and installed. The system enables the detection of short-lived thermal and epithermal neutron activated nuclides. Interfacing between gamma spectrometry and other components of the system is achieved through two programmable logic controllers. Optimization of the transfer time for trace element detection was thoroughly studied. Different factors affecting the reduction of transfer time were analyzed. Transfer time of the irradiating capsule under current operating conditions is about 700 ms. The setup will be used for both cyclic and pseudo-cyclic as well as instrumental neutron activation analysis. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.