Determination of nitrate in thorium, uranium and plutonium solutions

A potentiometric and a conductometric titration method were standardized for the determination of nitrate in thorium, uranium and plutonium solutions in the range of 2-10 mg, and 15-30 mg, respectively, with a precision and accuracy of 2% in both cases. The results were compared with those of other methods like Devarda's alloy reduction method and volumetric titration method. The procedures standardized were recommended for the determination of nitrate in heavy element solutions used for the preparation of oxide and mixed oxide microspheres by the sol-gel technique. (author)