Minimizing sample sizes while achieving accurate elemental concentrations in neutron activation analysis of precious pottery

We have demonstrated in this study that the combination of micro-sampling and various methods in NAA is an ideal method of quantifying trace elements in pottery. Methodologies in thermal and epithermal NAA in conjunction with Compton suppression has resulted in a wide range of elements with sample weights of only 10 mg. These results will help develop new and improved methods of analysis of precious pottery and ceramics while preserving as much of the pottery pieces as possible.