Application of the k0 method in neutron activation analysis and in prompt gamma activation analysis

The k0 method is a highly successful standard-ization method developed for Neutron Activation Analysis(NAA), later also introduced in Prompt Gamma ActivationAnalysis (PGAA). After the careful calibration of the irradi-ation and counting facilities, the k0 method makes the use ofelemental standards unnecessary. Masses of the componentsare determined relative to the flux monitor, or, in the case of PGAA, to other known components of the sample. The devel-opment of the method is summarized in this review togetherwith the description of methods implemented at differentlaboratories. The activities carried out in the laboratories ofthe authors are described as examples for the successfulimplementation of the k0 approach to activation analysis.