Neutron activation analysis of precious metals using a medical cyclotron as the neutron source****

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The identification and quantification of precious metals in ore samples can be a costly and time-consuming process. One of the current methods of analyzing ore samples is through a technique called the fire assay. This method, while very accurate, has the disadvantage of being a destructive testing technique and requires the use of lead to aid in the extraction of precious metal from the ore. ****Goldcorp Inc. Musselwhite mine is seeking an alternative method of analyzing ore and bullion samples for gold and other precious metals. The method must provide a low cost non-destructive method of testing gold and ore samples with a minimal environmental footprint. This work proposes to develop a new method for the analysis of mineral and bullion samples through neutron activation analysis (NAA) using the neutron flux produced by a medical cyclotron. ****We will develop a method of introducing samples into the cyclotron vault for irradiation and subsequent gamma analysis to determine the elemental make up of a sample. Through this work we will develop the analysis technique and determine the detection limits for the metals of interest as well as for key impurities.****This technique offers a non-destructive testing method and eliminates the production of lead waste products. We intend to harness this effectively free source for neutrons for NAA. If successful this would provide an opportunity for mining companies to have a non-destructive testing method that minimized environmental impact and provide cyclotron operators with an additional use of their facilities with minimal impact on their routine operations.