Conference Presentation (After Call)

IMPULSE-2023-00224

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Neutron Activation Analysis – Projects and data analysis at MLZ

Stieghorst, C. (Corresponding author)MLZ* ; Revay, Z.MLZ*

2023

Abstract: Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ) in Garching offers Neutron Activation Analysis(NAA) for scientific and industrial users. The irradiation positions in the FRM II reactorare well-thermalized with thermal-to-epithermal ratios up to 12,000 and fluxes in the rageof 1013–1014 cm-2s-1. We present the characteristics of the instrumentation and discuss sometypical applications. FRM II is currently on an extended maintenance break (until beginningof 2024), thus we also report on the experiments at the research reactors in Budapest andMainz. Currently, most applications are from the fields of cultural heritage, geology, andrecycling technologies. A particular focus is on the characterization of reference materials forthe use in other analytical methods. Furthermore, we will report on instrument and methoddevelopments for NAA at MLZ: (1) A prototype of a cyclic in-beam NAA has been developedas an additional setup at the PGAA instrument. (2) Improved automation is planned forthe classic NAA. (3) For data analysis in PGAA, NAA and related methods, a new project hasbeen initialized. It includes AI/ML-assisted evaluation of gamma-ray spectra and is fundedby the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). Its concept and firstresults will be discussed in the presentation.

Keyword(s): Earth, Environment and Cultural Heritage (1st) ; Archaeology/Museums/Arts (2nd) ; Materials Science (2nd) ; Instrument and Method Development (2nd)

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. PGAA (PGAA)

Experiment(s):

1. Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis
2. PGAA: Prompt gamma activation analysis (NL4b)

Appears in the scientific report 2023

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