Application of instrumental neutron activation analysis and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry to studying the river pollution in the State of Minas Gerais

Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) have been used for the determination of toxic heavy metals and other pollutants in the water of the Das Velhas river in the State of Minas Gerais, in south-east Brazil. Elemental concentrations of about 60 elements were measured in water samples collected to different parts of this river and from two affluents. There was a good agreement between the two analytical methods and the results were complementary. The results indicated an increase in the concentration of several polluting elements in the water from mining industry area.