Considerations about the selection of nuclear data used in neutron activation analysis

The problems involved in the selection of nuclear data used in parametric methods of activation analysis are discussed and analysed. Several examples of information extracted from different compilations, which are either insufficiently evaluated or lead to confusions and inconsistencies, are commented. Some criteria employed by compilers, that cause distortions in the treatment of the original values, are shown. Possible correct procedures of renormalisation, evaluation and tabulation of data are proposed. On the basis of the present status of nuclear data, as they are published in the current tabulations, it is concluded that the user should verify the criteria used in their selection.