Development of the <i>k</i><sub>0</sub>-standardized cyclic neutron activation analysis using short-lived radionuclides at the Dalat research reactor
Keywords: neutron activation analysis, cyclic NAA, short-lived radionuclides, k0-standardization, Dalat research reactor
Topics: Physics , Nuclear Physics (Experiment)
Submitted: 10.07.2025; Accepted: 18.09.2025; Published 30.09.2025
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How to Cite

Ho Van Doanh, Tran Quang Thien, Ho Manh Dung, Nguyen Nhi Dien, Hoang Sy Minh Tuan. "Development of the k0-standardized cyclic neutron activation analysis using short-lived radionuclides at the Dalat research reactor" Natural Sci. Rev. 2 100405 (2025)
https://doi.org/10.54546/NaturalSciRev.100405
Ho Van Doanh1, Tran Quang Thien2, Ho Manh Dung1,a, Nguyen Nhi Dien2, Hoang Sy Minh Tuan3
  • 1Center for Nuclear Technologies, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
  • 2Dalat Nuclear Research Institute, Lam Vien – Dalat Ward, Lam Dong, Vietnam
  • 3Thu Dau Mot University, Phu Loi Ward, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
  • adungmanhho@gmail.com
Natural Sci. Rev. 2 100405 (2025) 30.09.2025
DOI: 10.54546/NaturalSciRev.100405
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An optimized k0-standardized neutron activation analysis method incorporating cyclic irradiations (k0-CNAA) for short-lived radionuclides (SLRNs) has been developed at the Dalat research reactor. This paper highlights precise reactor parameter characterization using a cyclic irradiation system, simple sample preparation, and advanced calibration of HPGe detector-based gamma-ray spectrometry for SLRNs’ rapid multielement determination. By targeting SLRNs such as 77mSe, 110Ag, 20F, 179mHf, 52V, and 46mSc, with half-lives from seconds to minutes, the method enables quantification of elements essential for biological and environmental research. The in-house developed “k0-Dalat” software, featuring high automation, supports complete analysis. Method accuracy was validated using certified reference materials (SMELS-I, NIST-SRM-1566b, NIST-SRM-2711a), achieving deviations under 8% from certified values. Detection limits ranged from 0.1 to 1.9 mg/kg for target elements in biological samples, confirming the method’s high sensitivity and suitability for similar matrices.