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The Application of the Neutron Probe to the Nondestructive Examination of Architectural and Archaeological Materials

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  22 February 2011

Richard A. Livingston ,
L. Chang ,
L.S. Evans  and
J.I. Trombka
Richard A. Livingston
Affiliation:
Geology Department, U. of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
L. Chang
Affiliation:
Geology Department, U. of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742
L.S. Evans
Affiliation:
Goddard Spaceflight Center, Greenbelt MD 20771
J.I. Trombka
Affiliation:
Goddard Spaceflight Center, Greenbelt MD 20771
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Abstract

The neutron probe is a non-destructive technique for examining materials that is based on prompt neutron/gamma spectroscopy. It can be used either at a nuclear reactor or, with portable neutron sources, in the field or even underwater. Since it is sensitive to a wide range of elements, it can be applied to many problems in materials analysis and conservation. A description of the major features of the neutron probe's operation is presented, along with a case study of chloride deterioration of an historic brick structure at Colonial Williamsburg.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 123: Symposium L – Materials Issues in Art and Archaeology I , 1988 , 59
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1988

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