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Published on: June 6, 2018
Development of an automatic method for americium and plutonium separation and preconcentration using an multisyringe
Yamila Fajardo1, Laura Ferrer, Enrique Gómez
1Department of Chemistry, University of the Balearic Islands, E-07122 Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
A novel method efficiently separates americium (241Am) and plutonium (239+240Pu) using TRU-resin. This technique enables rapid analysis of large samples with high accuracy for environmental monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Radiochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Accurate determination of radionuclides like americium (241Am) and plutonium (239+240Pu) is crucial for environmental safety.
- Traditional methods for separating these actinides can be time-consuming and complex, especially with interfering matrixes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a new, automated procedure for the separation and preconcentration of 241Am and 239+240Pu.
- To improve the efficiency and speed of actinide analysis from environmental samples.
Main Methods:
- Utilized transuranide (TRU)-resin for selective separation of actinides.
- Integrated multisyringe flow injection analysis and multipumping flow system for automated sample treatment.
- Employed sequential elution with hydrochloric acid for americium and on-column reduction for plutonium separation.
- Measured alpha activities using a low-background proportional counter.
Main Results:
- Achieved efficient separation of 241Am and 239+240Pu from complex matrixes.
- Demonstrated a short analysis time with the capability to process large sample volumes.
- Obtained a relative standard deviation of 3% for alpha activity measurements.
- Established a low limit of detection of 0.004 Bq mL(-1).
Conclusions:
- The proposed method offers a rapid and reliable approach for the automated separation and preconcentration of 241Am and 239+240Pu.
- This technique is suitable for routine analysis in environmental radiochemical monitoring.
- The high sensitivity and accuracy make it valuable for detecting low levels of these important radionuclides.
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