Application of instumetal neutron activation analysis method for determination of some trace elements in lichens around three sites in Algiers

Trace elements (TEs) constitute a major part of pollution, which can induce a detrimental impact on public health. A precise analysis of these elements in the environment is an important parameter in the evaluation of the population's quality of life. This work aims to quantify the concentration of some trace elments in enviromental samples using Istrumental Neutron Activation Analysis technique (INAA); also a comparative study between three sampling points (Draria, Baraki and Reghaia) were done. The Samples and standards were irradiated for 6 h at NUR research reactor with a thermal neutron flux of 10(13) n cm(-2) s(-1), and analyzed by gamma ray spectrometry using HPGe detector. Seventeen elements were assessed: Ba, Br, Ce, Co, Cr, Hf, Fe, La, Nd, Rb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Sr, Yb and Zn in this study. The accuracy of the method was evaluated by analyzing Certified Reference Materials (CRMs) and Standard Reference Materials (SRMs). The data obtained in this work may contribute to obtaining information about a possible rank of pollution and the different capabilities of elemental bioaccumulation by lichens.

Automated summary

This study quantified the concentration of 17 trace elements in environmental samples from three sampling points using INAA technique, and evaluated the accuracy of the method. The data obtained may contribute to understanding pollution levels and bioaccumulation capabilities of elements by lichens.