Neutron activation determination of noble metals using a selective group separation scheme

A rapid and comprehensive method has been developed for the determination of ppm to sub-ppb amounts of Ru, Pd, Ag, Os, Ir, Pt and Au, based on thermal neutron irradiation, dissolution of samples, selective absorption on Srafion NMRR ion exchange resin and high resolution γ-ray spectrometry. Two noble metals “specific” resins were tested for their absorption behaviour. The method has been used for analysis of standard rocks, ores, minerals, lunar samples, coal, coal fly ash, and several biological materials.