Fast Decomposition Procedure of Solid Samples by Lithium Borates Fusion Employing Salicylic Acid

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Radiochemistry

Background:

• Rapid sample decomposition is crucial for timely analysis, especially in emergency situations.
• Existing methods for solid sample digestion can be time-consuming and complex.
• Accurate determination of radioisotopes requires efficient and reliable sample preparation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a fast decomposition procedure for solid samples using lithium borate fusion and salicylic acid.
• To assess the suitability of this method for alpha spectrometry, particularly in emergency scenarios.
• To compare the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method with established digestion techniques.

Main Methods:

• Solid samples were decomposed using lithium borate fusion combined with salicylic acid.
• The digestion and resin loading time was optimized to a maximum of 2 hours.
• The method was applied to various reference materials with diverse matrices and uranium content.

Main Results:

• The developed method significantly shortens sample digestion and preparation time to under 2 hours.
• High radiochemical recoveries were achieved, comparable to classical acid digestion, microwave digestion, and PEG-assisted fusion.
• Activity concentration values obtained were consistent with reference and literature data across various sample types.

Conclusions:

• The lithium borate fusion with salicylic acid offers a rapid and effective solution for solid sample decomposition.
• This method is particularly advantageous for alpha spectrometry in emergency response due to its speed and reliability.
• The procedure is versatile and can be successfully applied to a wide range of inorganic and organic matrices.