Application of multiple prompt gamma-ray analysis (MPGA) to geochemical and cosmochemical samples

A prompt gamma-ray analysis system using multiple detection method (MPGA system) was constructed at the neutron guide hall of the JRR-3M reactor of the Japan Atomic Energy Agency. We applied MPGA method to geochemical and cosmochemical samples to evaluate its analytical performance on signal to noise (S/N) ratio, sensitivity, and detection limit. The S/N ratio measured by MPGA system was larger than that by normal prompt gamma ray activation analysis (PGAA) at JRR-3M. For some elements, the S/N ratio was improved more than ten times. Several elements that are not detected by PGAA were detected by MPGA. At the present time, concentrations of major elements and trace elements with high neutron capture cross section in geochemical and cosmochemical samples were determined accurately by the MPGA system installed at JRR-3M. It is expected that it will determine a lot of trace elements after appropriate adjustments and modifications.