The Status of Activation Analysis in Archaeology and Geochemistry

Many of the initial applications for activation analysis occurred in the fields of archaeology, geochemistry and cosmochemistry. In addition to the desire to investigate noteworthy problems of interest to these disciplines, the reasons for employing activation analysis were based on the advantages of sample preparation, sensitivity, multi-element capability, and non-destructiveness. Nearly fifty years later and despite the development of several new analytical methods, we find that many of these same advantages continue to attract interest in activation analysis from these same disciplines. This overview discusses the past, present and future role of activation analysis with regard to research questions in archaeology, geochemistry, and cosmochemistry.