Measuring trace level beryllium, lead, and hexavalent chromium in radioactive contaminated samples

INOR 89

Linda D. Youmans, linda.youmans@srs.gov1, Michael J. Brisson, mike.brisson@srs.gov2, Maureen Bernard, maureen.bernard@srs.gov3, Willie Langford, willie.langford@srs.gov1, and Mark A. Jones, mark02jones@srs.gov4. (1) Analytical Laboratories, Washington, Savannah River Company, WSRC, Aiken, SC 29808, (2) Analytical Lab, WSRC, SRS, Aiken, SC 29808, (3) Analytical Laboratories Department, Washington Savannah River Co, Savannah River Site, Aiken, SC 29808, (4) Savannah River National Laboratory, WSRC, SRS, Aiken, SC 29808
The analytical laboratory of Washington Savannah River Company (WSRC) currently analyzes air filters and surface wipes for trace levels of beryllium. This analysis is accredited by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA). WSRC Analytical Laboratory is unique in that it is the only laboratory that can perform this accredited analysis on samples with plutonium contamination. This presentation will discuss current methods for measuring trace beryllium in a radioactive environment, including matrix interferences/resolutions, the effect on uncertainty within the constraints of radiological work, and improvements targeted for the future.

In addition to the measurement of beryllium, work is underway to measure plutonium contaminated samples for other metals, in addition to hexavalent chromium. Details of the analysis and progress made on this expansion will be outlined. Accreditation by AIHA will also be sought for these measurements.

 

Inorganic Materials: Applications to Environmental and Energy Research
1:30 PM-5:30 PM, Sunday, August 19, 2007 BCEC -- 203, Oral

Division of Inorganic Chemistry

The 234th ACS National Meeting, Boston, MA, August 19-23, 2007