Significance and Use

Soil samples prepared for radionuclide analyses by this practice can be used to monitor fallout distribution from nuclear facilities. This practice is intended to produce a homogeneous sample from which a relatively small aliquot (10 g) may be drawn for radiochemical analyses.

Most nuclear facilities fulfill major requirements of their monitoring programs by gamma-ray spectrometry measurements of soil. A widely used practice for these measurements is to fill a calibrated sample container, such as a Marinelli beaker ( ? 600-mL volume), with a homogenized soil sample. By preparing the entire soil core collection, sufficient homogeneous sample is available for radiochemical and gamma-ray spectrometry measurements.

1. Scope

1.1 This practice covers the preparation of surface soil samples collected for chemical analysis of radionuclides, particularly uranium and plutonium. This practice describes one acceptable approach to the preparation of soil samples for radiochemical analysis.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. A specific hazard statement is given in 6.3.

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

C998 Practice for Sampling Surface Soil for Radionuclides

E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves

Keywords

environmental; preparation; radionuclides; soil; Plutonium; Radionuclides; Sample preparation--nuclear materials/applications; Sampling nuclear/related energy sources; Soil (radioactive analysis); Specimen preparation (for testing)--nuclear applications; Surface preparation; Uranium;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 13.080.05 (Examination of soil in general)

DOI: 10.1520/C0999-05R10E01

ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.

ASTM C999