An accurate procedure for multielement neutron activation analysis of trace elements in biological materials

A procedure for radiochemical neutron activation analysis of biological materials for As, Cd, Co, Cu, Ga, Hf, Mg, Mn, Na, Sb, Sc, Se, Zn, and the rare-earth elements (REE) has been developed. Maximum control over accuracy has been emphasized. Samples are digested under reflux in the presence of carrier for every element determined, and a chemical yield is measured for every element assayed. The procedure has been tested by replicate analysis of National Bureau of Standards bovine liver sample (SRM-1577). Values agree to within their uncertainties with those given by NBS for the 9 elements of this group that they have analyzed. Accuracies at the 90% confidence level for elements in the liver sample are estimated as better than ±10% for Cu, Na, and Zn, between ±10 and ±25% for As, Co, Hg, La, Mn, and Se, and between ±25 and ±50% for Cd, Sb, Sc, and Sm.