Research in Development of Nuclear Techniques for Elemental Speciation
Material Measurement Laboratory, Biosystems and Biomaterials Division
NIST only participates in the February and August reviews.
Neutron activation analysis (NAA) provides direct information on amounts of trace elements independent of their chemical form and the sample matrix. In combination with separation techniques, NAA can be used to identify and quantify elemental species. These elemental moieties have critical biological and clinical functions in living systems and their identification and quantitative determination is highly desirable. Research opportunities are available that focus on the development and use of analytical approaches for bio-inorganic investigations of element species incorporating robust NAA procedures in tandem with suitable methods for the isolation of species. A state-of-the art NAA facility and chemical extraction and chromatographic separation systems are available, as well as complementary inorganic and organic analysis processes and instruments.