Preconcentration and decontamination in radioanalysis

The scope of environmental radioanalysis can be enlarged substantially by preconcentration. The techniques used may be characterized by a concentration- and a decontamination-factor. In addition the minimal representative sample-mass and the maximal acceptable aliquot-mass and dose-rate have to be considered. In general the best choice is an inorganic scavenger like active carbon or an automatized solvent extraction. (orig.)