Evaluation of trace elements in lung samples from coal miners using neutron activation analysis

In this study, instrumental neutron activation analysis was applied to the determination of Sc, La, Ce, Nd, Sm, Eu, Tb, Yb, Lu, Hf,Th, and U in lung s amples from miners working in coal mines located in the state of Santa Cata rina, Brazil. These results were compared to those from a control group con stituted of healthy individuals. The results showed that the elements deter mined exhibit considerable intersubject variability within a single group o f individuals and the mean values of concentrations in miners' lungs were h igher than those of normal individuals. Lung samples presented U concentrat ions varying from 11 to 890 mu g/kg. Therefore, for some samples, the contr ibution of the uranium fission products in the analysis of La, Ce, Nd, and Sm was considered by determining the interference correction factors. The a ccuracy of the results was evaluated by analyzing certified reference mater ials.