Collaborative monitoring study of airborne particulate matters among seven Asian countries

Summary Seven Asian countries have been collaborating in collecting airborne particulate matter (APM) in their individual countries and analyzing them by neutron activation analysis as a common analytical tool. APM samples were collected into two fractions of fine and coarse grains (PM2 and PM2-10, respectively). Analytical data were compared from several viewpoints such as particulate sizes, locality of sampling sites (either urban or rural) and geographical location of participating countries. Chemical composition and their monthly variations as well as mass concentrations appear to be highly characteristic for individual sampling sites, suggesting that NAA data are suitable for evaluating the air quality in each site.     

Application of NAA to air particulate matter collected at thirteen sampling sites in eight Asian countries: A collaborative study

Air particulate matter (APM) samples (PM_2.5 and PM_10–2.5) were collected at 13 sampling points in 8 Asian countries and their chemical compositions were determined by using neutron activation analysis (NAA) with the k ₀-standardization method in addition to conventional comparative method of NAA. Analytical data showed that mass concentration and elemental composition of the APM collected are variable in terms of time and space, and are related to the characteristics of the sampling sites concerned. NAA was proved to be highly effective for the regional characterization of APM in chemical composition.     

A trial proficiency test of eight NAA laboratories in Asia using stream sediments

Eight neutron activation analysis research groups from seven countries have participated in a trial proficiency test under the auspices of the Forum for Nuclear Cooperation in Asia. Three stream sediment reference materials were used in the test. A high degree of proficiency was found in the quantification of Co and Sc and more than 20 elements were well quantified by the majority of laboratories. The results support the use of neutron activation analysis, as practised by the participants, for geochemical mapping. The data produced in this study may provide an opportunity to improve the characterisation of the three reference materials.