Small sample in-vivo neutron activation analysis using californium sources

This work describes an in vivo neutron activation analysis facility for small samples, such as rats or human hand, using two 100 μg252Cf neutron sources. The irradiation area is a cylindrical space, of 12 cm diameter and about 15 cm length, with fairly uniform neutron flux distribution. Experimental data on the reproducibility, effects of volume and other conditions for in vivo measurements are given. Comparative atomic absorption data on calcium measurements on rats are reported. The facility is now used for animal experiments as well as human hand irradiations in clinical investigations involving calcium metabolism and bone diseases.