Trace analysis of Indonesian volcanic ash using thermal and epithermal neutron activation analysis

There is continued great interest in determining the trace element and heavy metal content of volcanic ash for a variety of reasons. The motivation stems from the desire to understand the geochemistry of volcanic ash in imbedded geological formations, the impact on seawater, and the possible release of toxic elements into the environment that may impact livestock grazing and water systems. Ash from volcanic plumes can go as high 8-18 km thus affecting climate and air traffic. We have employed Compton suppression neutron activation analysis (NAA) with thermal and epithermal neutrons to determine trace elements in volcanic ash from Indonesian eruption of Mount Merapi in October 2010. We found a wide range of elements, including several rare earth elements.