Determination of Protein Levels in Nigerian Grains Using 14 MeV Neutron Activation Analysis

Fast (14 MeV) neutrons have been successfully used in investigating the protein content of different food grains (Soya Beans, Sorghum, Maize and Beans) locally grown and consumed in Nigeria. Protein was estimated via nitrogen using the ¹⁴N(n, 2n)¹³N reaction. Quantification of nitrogen was achieved through a γ-γ coincidence counting of 511 keV positron emissions from the decaying ¹³N. The implication of the use of the emitted annihilation positrons, the interference introduced in the analytical energy spectra from other activated target nuclides present in the sample, as well as possible proton “knock on” reactions anticipated from cellulose in grain matrix were assessed, and their contributions to the 511 keV gamma energy resolved. For comparative purposes, replicates of samples analyzed through Fast Neutron Activation Analysis (FNAA) were investigated using the Kjeldahl method. The samples were carried through the Kjeldahl process of pre-digestion (with appropriate catalysts), digestion and titration. The results obtained through the Kjeldahl process were found to be in good agreement with those obtained using FNAA although slightly lower. Protein content (%) of Nigerian grains analyzed varied from a low 8.75 ± 2.96 for sorghum to 35.93 ± 0.31 for soya beans.