2. Remove them and measure the radioactivity produced from the sample.
3. Compare the radioactivity of the sample and the comparator and calculate the amount of the element in the sample as a proportion:
| Radioactivity in sample |
| Radioactivity in comparator |
| Quantity of element in sample |
| Quantity of element in comparator |
Neutron Activation Analysis: Detecting Sodium in a Sample of Plastic
Step 1. Weigh a sample and a standard in quartz tubes.
Step 2. Seal tubes in package for reactor irradiation.
Step 3. Bombard with neutrons for about 3 hours in a reactor.