Application of a low-yield neutron generator for rapid evaluation of alumino-silicate ores from Nigeria by FNAA

A rapid analytical procedure based on low-yield of neutrons produced by a sealed-tube; 14 MeV neutron generator has been used for the determination of the Al and Si contents of alumino-silicate ores from Nigeria. Primary fast neutron flux reaching the sample and standard were monitored by high-purity Al foils and checked by a BF3 neutron counter system. Analytical grade Al2O3 and SiO2 chemical powders were used as standards while the analytical quality control of the procedure was checked by Bauxite (BCS-395) and Portland Cement (BCS-372) certified reference materials. The deviations of our measured values from the certified values were found to be 1.6% and 1.3% for Al and Si. Detection limits of the set-up for Al and Si were deduced to be 2.7 and 0.9 wt%; Respectively. Results are hereby presented for some industrial raw materials.