Alpha-Spec Pu Sample Preparation

Alpha-Spec Pu Sample Preparation: Separation

Sample Receiving and Preparation
Sample Management Office
Sample Receiving
Quality Control

Analytical Processes
Thermal Ionization Mass Spectroscopy

TIMS Sample Preparation

Alpha-Spec Pu Sample Preparation - Separation

Alpha-Spec Pu Sample Preparation - Electroplating

Plutonium Analysis by Alpha-Spectrometry

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Project Documentation

Bioassay Homepage

The preparation of samples for analysis of plutonium by alpha-spectroscopy is performed in a clean room environment to minimize background levels. The sample is treated with calcium phosphate to precipitate the plutonium from solution. The sample is centrifuged, and the supernatant liquid decanted and discarded, leaving the precipitated plutonium solids. The solids are then dissolved in 8M nitric acid and heated to convert all of the plutonium to the +4 valence state. Approximately 3,000 samples, including spikes and blanks, per year are prepared for alpha-spectroscopy analysis.

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