1. Scope

1.1 This test method describes the determination of plutonium in solutions of unirradiated nuclear-grade (that is, high-purity) materials by controlled-potential coulometry. Controlled-potential coulometry may be performed in a choice of supporting electrolytes, such as 0.9 M HNO 3 , 1 M HClO 4 , 1 M HCl, 5 M HCl, and 0.5 M H 2 SO 4 . Limitations on the use of selected supporting electrolytes are discussed in Section 5. Optimum quantities of plutonium for this procedure are 5 to 10 mg.

1.2 Plutonium-bearing materials are radioactive and toxic. Adequate laboratory facilities, such as gloved boxes, fume hoods, controlled ventilation, etc., along with safe techniques must be used in handling specimens containing these materials.

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

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.

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

C1009 Guide for Establishing a Quality Assurance Program for Analytical Chemistry Laboratories Within the Nuclear Industry

C1068 Guide for Qualification of Measurement Methods by a Laboratory Within the Nuclear Industry

C1128 Guide for Preparation of Working Reference Materials for Use in Analysis of Nuclear Fuel Cycle Materials

C1156 Guide for Establishing Calibration for a Measurement Method Used to Analyze Nuclear Fuel Cycle Materials

C1168 Practice for Preparation and Dissolution of Plutonium Materials for Analysis

C1210 Guide for Establishing a Measurement System Quality Control Program for Analytical Chemistry Laboratories Within the Nuclear Industry

C1297 Guide for Qualification of Laboratory Analysts for the Analysis of Nuclear Fuel Cycle Materials

E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to Determine the Precision of a Test Method

Keywords

controlled-potential coulometry; coulometry; electroanalytical method for plutonium; plutonium analysis; plutonium assay using electrolysis ; plutonium concentration;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 27.120.30 (Fissile materials and nuclear fuel technology)

DOI: 10.1520/C1108-99R06

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