Elemental analysis of cement used for radiation shielding by instrumental neutron activation analysis

We aim to get the concentration of trace elements responsible of high radioactivity of a nuclear reactor shielding after removing the nuclear power station from service. These elements are activated by (n,γ) reaction during the reactor service life. These elements are Ce, Co, Cs, Eu, Fe, Hf, Sb, Sc, Ta and Tb that normally present in concrete shielding especially in cement. Different Egyptian cement samples have been irradiated with neutron beam and analyzed with gamma ray counting system. It was concluded that the radioactivity from these trace elements play an important role after a long cooling time or reactor decommissioning.

► Hazardous elements responsible of long lived isotopes. ► Application of neutron activation analysis (NAA) technique in cement. ► Reduce chemical compounds responsible for the long lived isotopes.