COMBINED PROCEDURE FOR THE DETERMINATION OF SR-90, AM-241 AND PU RADIONUCLIDES IN SOIL SAMPLES

A combined procedure for sequential determination of low level activit y concentrations of Sr-90, Am-241 and Pu radionuclides is described. T he analysis of alpha-emitters is performed by isotope dilution alpha-s pectrometry using Pu-242 or Pu-236 and Am-243 tracers. Strontium-90 is analyzed by liquid scintillation counting using the double energetic windows method. The method combines the well established procedure for Pu analysis based on anion exchange, the powerful and selective metho d for Sr isolation based on extraction chromatography using Sr-Spec re sin and finally it includes the application of the TRU-Spec column for separation and purification of the Am fraction. The radiochemical pro cedure was tested using IAEA reference and intercomparison materials. Major parameters of the procedure as well as advantages and drawbacks are discussed in detail.