Improving the sensitivity and accuracy of gamma activation analysis for the rapid determination of gold in mineral ores

Mining companies rely on chemical analysis methods to determine concentrations of gold in mineral ore samples. As gold is often mined commercially at concentrations around 1 part-per-million, it is necessary for any analysis method to provide good sensitivity as well as high absolute accuracy. We describe work to improve both the sensitivity and accuracy of the gamma activation analysis (GAA) method for gold. We present analysis results for several suites of ore samples and discuss the design of a GAA facility designed to replace conventional chemical assay in industrial applications. •Gamma activation analysis demonstrated as practical method for gold assay.•‘Reference foil’ method significantly improves calibration accuracy.•Performance of commercial gamma activation analysis facility modelled.