Optimum timing parameters in 14 MeV neutron activation analysis of thorium and uranium using delayed neutron counting

A detailed theoretical treatment of cyclic activation analysis of thorium and uranium using a 14 MeV neutron generator and delayed neutron counting is presented. Variations of the detector response with sample transfer and total experiment times are examined in order to obtain the optimum cycle periods for the maximum detector response. Cycle optimization for 95% and 90% of the maximum detector response is investigated. Furthermore, elimination of the delayed neutrons produced by the reaction¹⁷O(n,p)¹⁷N is also considered in optimum cycle timing. Finally, calculations are carried out to estimate detection limits for thorium and uranium. Experimental results will be reported in a subsequent paper.