Study of the gamma spectrum of [sup.16]N with a BGO detector, for the purpose of calibration and of determining the fluorine grade of mineral samples

• Published in: Journal of radioanalytical and nuclear chemistry Vol. 298; no. 2; p. 915
• Main Authors: Castro-Garcia, M.P, Alonso-Sanchez, T, Rey-Ronco, M.A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Springer 01.11.2013
• Subjects: Detectors; Fluorides; Gamma rays
• ISSN: 0236-5731; 1588-2780
• DOI: 10.1007/s10967-013-2599-3

The study of [sup.16]N's gamma spectrum has two main uses: calibrating gamma detectors in a high energy range, and determining the fluorine grade of mineral samples of fluorite. This article examines and compares the gamma ray spectrum of [sup.16]N as recorded by a [Bi.sub.4]Ge[O.sub.12] detector, as well as the resolution of this detector at high energy levels, and the signal-background relationship of an experimental laboratory cyclic activation unit. [sup.16]N is the product of the reaction 9-F-19(n, α)7-N-16, which takes place during the neutron activation of mineral samples of fluorspar, and its production depends, among other factors, upon the grade of fluorite. The technique used in this study is cyclic-type neutron activation for recording delayed gamma rays, carried out with an americium-beryllium neutron source with an activity of 1 Ci. Lastly, a correlation is established between the area below the peak amount of [sup.16]N emitted by the sample, and the sample's fluorite grade. Keywords Spectrum * Fluorspar * Fluorite * Gamma rays * Cyclic activation