Comparison of Kayzero for Windows and k0-IAEA software packages for k0 standardization in neutron activation analysis

For many years the well-established Kayzero for Windows software for neutron activation analysis (NAA) using k0 standardization was the only commercial program available. Recently, the freeware k0-IAEA software has been launched by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The software is based on an adapted Høgdahl convention in which the cadmium cut-off energy from the k0-formulas is removed. The holistic approach of γ-ray spectra evaluation is used which minimizes the user's interaction with the software.Several certified reference materials were analyzed with the k0-IAEA and Kayzero for Windows software using the same gamma-ray spectra obtained from several irradiation and counting modes. The results obtained were compared and evaluated in terms of precision, accuracy and detection limits. The work-flow procedures performed by the two software packages and the results obtained are discussed.