Papers by Keyword: PGNAA

Abstract: Elemental studies of any samples for example concrete are important for better characterization and inspection. Currently, many techniques have been applied such as x-ray, gamma-ray and etc. However further analysis is good to know without destroying the samples. Furthermore, simulations of any samples with Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) are useful to experimentalist. In this study, Monte Carlo technique was used with two different type of software. The results were successful on elemental analysis from both techniques.

Abstract: An online coal measurement system, which is based on the prompt gamma neutron activation analysis (PGNAA) technology and uses a D-T neutron generator, is studied in this work. To improve the analytical precision of the element in coal, the original moderator is optimized. The standards of the optimization are (1) the neutron flux increase 50% after moderation; (2) the proportion of thermal and middle-energy neutron and fast neutron is nearly equal to 1:1. Using Monte Carlo method, the moderator has been optimized by adding the uranium238 to the original moderator, which consists of high density polyethylene (HDPE). The simulation results show that the optimization standards can be basically satisfied when the thickness of the uranium238 and HDPE are 4cm and 1cm respectively. On this basis, preliminary study on introducing the channel to moderator is carried out. The preliminary results show that the channel can improve the total neutron flux. But also, it will decrease the proportion of thermal and middle-energy neutron and fast neutron.

Abstract: Monitoring of elemental composition of structural concrete is required to protect reinforcing steel in concrete against corrosion. Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) technique has been used to measure the elemental composition of concrete samples. In this study 2.8 MeV neutron-based PGNAA setup at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM) has been tested for elemental analysis of concrete sample. Later the setup will be used to measure chloride and sulfate ion concentration in concrete samples. Corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete is believed to be caused by chloride and sulfate ions. In the KFUPM PGNAA facility the prompt gamma rays are produced through capture of thermal neutrons in bulk sample. The sample size, to be used with PGNAA setup, is determined through Monte Carlo simulations. In this study, prompt gamma ray yield from calcium and silicon present in the concrete sample was measured for various thickness of the front moderator of the PGNAA setup. The experimental yield of prompt gamma ray was compared with the results of the Monte Carlo simulations and an excellent agreement has been achieved between the two. The study has shown that the PGNAA technique can be successfully applied for elemental analysis of the concrete samples