A new approach to single-comparator instrumental neutron activation analysis

A new parametric approach to single-comparator instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) at the University of Missouri Research Reactor (MURR) was investigated. A detailed MCNP steady-state model of the MURR core was developed using the latest neutron data libraries to compute the continuous-energy neutron flux distribution. Intrinsic reaction rates were predicted by coupling the computed local flux distribution to the isotopic (n, γ) excitation functions for a range of elements present in standard reference materials (SRM). Using the predicted (n, γ) reaction-rates, the concentrations for the various elements were determined. The method worked well for all nuclides tested, including those with cross sections that are not proportional to 1/v such as Lu and Eu with agreements for most elements within 5% of the reference value.     

Variation in k0 neutron flux parameters after replacement of the beryllium reflector and graphite wedge at the University of Missouri Research Reactor

In January 2006 the beryllium reflector and graphite wedge that contained the k₀ INAA irradiation position were replaced at the University of Missouri Research Reactor. Prior to replacement the average values of the flux ratio, f, and the epithermal non-ideality factor, α, were 57.4 ± 4.5 and 0.039 ± 0.012. The values of f and α immediately after the beryllium and graphite wedge replacement were 39.4 ± 0.6 and 0.021 ± 0.002. Subsequent measurements indicate that the neutron spectrum hardened with time, possibly due to the buildup of the ⁶Li atom density to saturation.     

Application of a non-indexed dual sprayer pneumatically assisted electrospray source to the high throughput quantitation of target compounds in biological fluids

The need for increased throughput in the quantitation of target compounds in biological fluids by high performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry continues to drive research in this area. This report describes the application of a prototype dual sprayer electrospray source for the quantitative analysis of biological samples. Quantitative performance for 180 compounds in a microsomal stability assay was found to be adequate when compared with a conventional single sprayer measurement. Issues with use of dual sprayers in a routine production environment are discussed.     

The synthesis of poly(styrene-co-sodium styrene-p-carboxylate)

This article describes a technique for the homogeneous lithiation and subsequent carboxylation of high-molecular-weight polystyrenes containing up to 14 mol % p-bromostyrene. Thus, poly(styrene-co-p-bromostyrene)s were reacted in dilute tetrahydrofuran solution with large stoichiometric excesses of n-butyllithium with no precipitation of ionomer and subsequently carboxylated with anhydrous carbon dioxide or dry ice. By this technique polystyrenes in which up to 100% of the original bromine groups had been replaced by carboxyl functionalities were obtained.