Prompt gamma-ray activation analysis for determination of boron in aqueous solutions

Prompt gamma-ray activation analysis (PGAA) is a nuclear analytical technique for the determination of trace and other elements in solid, liquid or gaseous samples. The method consists in observing gamma rays emitted by a sample during neutron irradiation. Of particular importance for PGAA is the measurement of boron. Indeed, this technique gives the opportunity to detect boron concentration down to the ppm or ppb level depending on the sample matrix. Furthermore, boron cannot be easily measured by other methods without risks of contamination. Trace analysis of boron in liquids has been performed and characterized at the PGA facility of the neutron spallation source SINQ (Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland). First, a calibration curve was determined with standard boron solutions. Then, the PGAA was applied for the determination of boron in geological water samples. The results were compared with ICP-MS measurements. Finally, the method yielded promising results to measure the concentration of boron taken up by cells in a new treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.