scope:

This document describes a method for measuring ²³⁸Pu and 239 + 240 isotopes in soil by alpha spectrometry samples using chemical separation techniques.

The method can be used for any type of environmental study or monitoring. These techniques can also be used for measurements of very low levels of activity, one or two orders of magnitude less than the level of natural alpha-emitting radionuclides.

The test methods described in this document can also be used to measure the radionuclides in sludge, sediment, construction material and products following proper sampling procedure^{[2][3][4][5][7][8]}.

The mass of the test portion required depends on the assumed activity of the sample and the desired detection limit. In practice, it can range from 0,1 g to 100 g of the test sample.

[2] ISO 5667-12, Water quality - Sampling - Part 12: Guidance on sampling of bottom sediments from rivers, lakes and estuarine areas

[3] ISO 5667-13, Water quality - Sampling - Part 13: Guidance on sampling of sludges

[4] ISO 5667-17, Water quality - Sampling - Part 17: Guidance on sampling of bulk suspended solids

[5] ISO 5667-19, Water quality - Sampling - Part 19: Guidance on sampling of marine sediments

[7] ISO 16000-11, Indoor air - Part 11: Determination of the emission of volatile organic compounds from building products and furnishing - Sampling, storage of samples and preparation of test specimens