NEMI Method Summary


Method Summary Information

Method Number:

CHEM-TP-GA/B.2

Media:

WATER

Revision:

April 1999

Method Source:

U.S. Department of Energy Radiological and Environmental Services Laboratory

Analytes in this method

Subcategory:

RADIOCHEMICAL

Official Name:

GROSS ALPHA AND BETA IN WATER AND WASTE WATER

Descriptive Name

Gross Alpha and Beta in Water and Waste Water

Source Info:

U.S. Department of Energy Radiological and Environmental Services Laboratory
850 Energy Drive
MS4149
Idaho Falls, ID 83401

Citation:

RESL Technical Procedure

375227

Byte file

Brief Method
Summary:

Gross alpha and beta measurements are mainly used for screening purposes. Gross measurements are a shorter and cheaper method than determination of specific nuclides. Depending upon the purpose for analyzes, gross alpha or gross beta may suffice. Specific analyses may be requested if the alpha activity is greater than 5 pCi/L and/or the gross beta activity is greater than 8 pCi/L. Samples are evaporated with excess nitric acid and transferred to tarred stainless steel plates or serrated planchets.

Scope And
Application:

This procedure determines gross alpha and beta counts in water and wastewater samples containing unknown quantities of dissolved solids. This procedure is not applicable to samples prepared for counting outside RESL.

Applicable
Conc Range:

Alpha activity less than 5 pCi/L and gross beta activity less than 8 pCi/L.

Interferences:

None given.

QC Requirements:

QC procedures based on internal laboratory requirements for radiochemical analysis.

Sample Handling:

Nitrate salts can be hygroscopic so it is necessary to store the prepared plates in a desiccator prior to counting to minimize the effect on counting efficiency.

Max Holding Time:

None given.

Relative Cost:

$51 to $200

4861

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Method Summary Information