Uranium and plutonium solution assays by transmission-corrected x-ray fluorescence
We have refined and tested a previously developed x-ray fluorescence analysis technique for uranium and plutonium solutions that compensates for variations in the absorption of the exciting gamma rays and fluorescent x-rays. We use {sup 57}Co to efficiently excite the K lines of the elements, and a mixed {sup 57}Co plus {sup 153}Gd transmission source to correct for variations in absorption. The absorption correction is a unique feature of our technique. It is possible to accurately calibrate the system with a single solution standard. There does not need to be a close match in composition (i.e., absorption) between the standard(s) and solutions to be analyzed. Specially designed equipment incorporates a planar intrinsic germanium detector, excitation and transmission radioisotopes, and specimen holder. The apparatus can be inserted into a rubber glove of a glovebox, keeping the apparatus outside and the solutions inside the glovebox, thereby protecting the user and the equipment from possible contamination. An alternate design may be used in chemical reprocessing plants, providing continuous monitoring, by measuring the trans-actinides through stainless steel piping. This technique has been tested at the Bochvar Research Institute of Inorganic Materials in Moscow for possible use in the Russian complex of nuclear facilities. This is part of a cooperative program between laboratories in the United States and Russia to strengthen systems of nuclear materials protection, control, and accountability (MPC and A). A part of this program is to accurately measure and track inventories of materials, thus the need for good non-destructive analytical techniques such as the one described here.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Defense Programs (DP) (US)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-48
- OSTI ID:
- 14872
- Report Number(s):
- UCRL-JC-130094-Rev-1; GJ0800000; GJ0800000; TRN: US0106834
- Resource Relation:
- Journal Volume: 28; Journal Issue: 4; Conference: 6th International Conference on Facility Operations - Safeguards Interface, Jackson Hole, WY (US), 09/20/1999--09/24/1999; Other Information: PBD: 8 Sep 1999
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
K-Edge X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis for Actinide and Heavy Elements Solution Concentration Measurements
|
book | January 1985 |
Nondestructive, Energy-Dispersive, X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Actinide Stream Concentrations from Reprocessed Nuclear Fuel
|
book | January 1980 |
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A transportable x-ray fluorescence analysis system for assay of plutonium and uranium solutions in gloveboxes