NOTICE: Due to a lapse in annual appropriations, most of this website is not being updated. Learn more.
Form submissions will still be accepted but will not receive responses at this time. Sections of this site for programs using non-appropriated funds (such as NVLAP) or those that are excepted from the shutdown (such as CHIPS and NVD) will continue to be updated.
An official website of the United States government
Here’s how you know
Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock (
) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
Neutron Irradiation in Activation Analysis: A New Rabbit for the NBSR
Published
Author(s)
Richard M. Lindstrom, Rolf L. Zeisler, Elizabeth A. Mackey, P J. Liposky, Rachel S. Popelka-Filcoff, Robert E. Williams
Abstract
Elementary activation analysis assumes that the reaction rate is proportional to the number of atoms of analyte present in the sample. On close examination, this is not always true, even within a set of samples irradiated together. For accurate analysis, it is necessary to consider neutron flux gradients in three dimensions, neutron self-shielding, and sometimes changes in neutron spectrum by the sample. Gamma radiation from the reactor core and from neutron activation raises the temperature, induces recoil reactions, and otherwise degrades the sample and its container. These issues are all important in the design and experimental characterization of irradiation facilities, as exemplified in the installation of a new rabbit facility in the NIST reactor.
Lindstrom, R.
, Zeisler, R.
, Mackey, E.
, Liposky, P.
, Popelka-Filcoff, R.
and Williams, R.
(2008),
Neutron Irradiation in Activation Analysis: A New Rabbit for the NBSR, Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry
(Accessed October 10, 2025)