Radioanalytical methods for the non-destructive analysis of lunar samples

The elemental compositions of Apollo 11 and Apollo 12 lunar soil samples 10084,141 and 12070,83 and Apollo 12 rock fragment 12063,73 were determined by non-destructive radioanalytical methods. Main mineral fractions and glasses separated from these samples were analyzed as well. Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) was used to determine Na, Mg, Al, Si, K, Ca, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Zr, Cs, Ba La, Ce, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Tm, Yb, Lu, Hf, Ta, W, Ir, Au, Th and U. A method of delayed neutron counting was used for the determination of uranium, and non-dispersive radioisotopic X-ray fluorescence analysis was applied to the determination of Ti, Fe, Sr, Y and Zr.