IAEA/RCA Regional Training Course on “Application of PGNAA (Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis) and RI (Radioisotope) Techniques for Exploration & Exploitation of Oil & Gas and Solid Mineral Resources” will be held in Beijing & Xinjiang, China in 24 October 4 November 2005. The main objective of the training course is to assist the Member States to use PGNAA and radioisotope technology for natural resource exploration and exploitation and for improving industrial process efficiency and product quality.

Radioisotope-based technologies play an important role in trouble-shooting, analyzing and optimizing industrial processes. The oil & gas reservoir, petroleum chemistry, solid mining, metallurgy, cement, and mineral processing sectors are those of major targets where the radioisotope technology is shown as competitive and beneficial. It is viewed that there is a need to upgrade the capability of radioisotope groups in developing countries, to promote routine services of mature techniques and to transfer novel developments and emerging new applications in the sectors. During the course, basic theory and field applications of PGNAA and radioisotope techniques in oil & gas and solid mineral industries will be covered. In particular, technical focuses will be placed on the following items; PGNAA applications in coal and copper mine, PGNAA off-line analysis of bulk raw material for better controlling industrial processes in coal, cement and mineral industries, etc.

It is noted that new developments in instrumentation, software and nuclear data suggest that prompt gamma applications could be extended beyond the current use of PGNAA. In this regards, efforts are being made to promote the dissemination of these developments and explore new fields of profitable use in medical diagnostics and treatment, mineral exploration, process control, environmental monitoring and in food and agriculture survey. The charm of this versatile analytical tool lies in its flexibility for direct application to any kind of sample and - albeit neutrons are involved - no measurable radioactivity is being produced.
For further information, contact Mr Peixin Zhang at pxzhang@iris.ciae.ac.cn or peizinzhang2002@yahoo.com