A feasibility study of i n v i v o 14‐MeV neutron activation analysis using the associated particle technique

The feasibility of using the time correlated associated particle technique for i n v i v o 14‐MeV neutron activation analysis has been investigated. Gamma rays following neutron inelastic scattering with nitrogen, carbon, and oxygen have been measured with a 12.5×10‐cm NaI(Tl) detector. The results have been scaled to a proposed facility comprising four such detectors past which the subject would be scanned. Based on counting statistics, the precision of estimation of these elements has been determined to be 2.1%, 1.0%, and 1.1%, respectively for experimental measurements on a sample containing physiological concentrations of the major body elements. The average body dose level would be restricted to 0.3 mSv.