Photon activation analysis of large metallurgical slag samples using a 23 MV medical linear accelerator

The potential of large sample photon activation analysis for multi-element, non-destructive analysis of metallurgical tap smelting slag using a 23 MV medical linear accelerator as photon source was investigated. An absolute quantification method was developed. The results of the analysis were compared against values obtained by instrumental neutron activation analysis with a satisfactory agreement. Advantages of the technique include improved representativeness of results by analysis of larger samples, elimination of reference samples, irradiation versatility and convenience. The technique will be applied to examine early bronze age copper ore reduction practices between islands of the Aegean.