DOE EML: G-03: Microprecipitation Source Preparation for Alpha Spectrometry
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Official Method Name
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Microprecipitation Source Preparation for Alpha Spectrometry |
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Current Revision
| EML Procedures Manual HASL-300, Volume 1, 28th Ed.(1997) |
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Media
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WATER |
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Instrumentation
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Preparatory Procedure |
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Method Subcategory
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Radiochemical |
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Method Source
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Citation
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Brief Method Summary
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Microprecipitates of Th, U, Pu, Am, and Cm, suitable for alpha-spectrometry measurements, are prepared by coprecipitation with Nd as the F-. [Adapted from Sill and Williams (1981) and Hindman (1983).] |
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Scope and Application
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This procedure is used to prepare samples for analysis of Th, U, Pu, Am, and Cm in water. |
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Applicable Concentration Range
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Not applicable |
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Interferences
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(A) Deionized water storage - Store the filtered water in a 20-L capacity plastic carboy with a spigot. Deionized water may contain a sufficient quantity of solid material to adversely effect the resolution of the final filtered sample. (B) Thorium determination - Neodymium is preferred as a carrier for the determination of thorium. Cerium compounds tend to contain variable and measurable quantities of thorium. |
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Quality Control Requirements
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The use of titanium trichloride, an extremely powerful reducing agent, should be used in a well-ventilated hood. |
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Sample Handling
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The separated Th, Pu, Am or Cm solution for precipitation should be in a 1-2 mL volume of 1N HCI or 1N HNO3 solution. The U bearing solution must be in HCl solution. Due to the use of HF in the preparation of the reagents and in the precipitation procedure, rubber gloves must be worn and plasticware must be used as noted. |
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Maximum Holding Time
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None given. |
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Relative Cost
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Less than $50 |
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Sample Preparation Methods
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