Tritium monitoring methodology and application at a research reactor

Tritium monitoring of effluent streams from operating nuclear reactors is required to minimize such releases. A study was conducted in which an air tritium monitoring method, using silica gel desiccant, was combined with existing tritium monitoring capabilities at the University of Missouri Research Reactor. Results of the study include the development of a procedure to monitor exhaust air for tritium using silica gel to collect the moisture, measurement of tritium concentrations in various air exhaust lines and containment building air, and the determination of reliable tritium data concerning yearly stack release and daily fluctuations. (author)