Determination of ²²⁶Ra in urine using triple quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

Measuring ²²⁶Ra in urine at low levels is critical for both biomonitoring and radiological emergency response. Here we report a new analytical method to quantify ²²⁶Ra, as developed and validated by a simple dilute-and-shoot procedure, followed by Inductively Coupled Plasma-triple quadrupole-mass spectrometry detection using 'No Gas MS-MS' mode. The method provides rapid and accurate results for ²²⁶Ra with a limit of detection (LOD) down to 0.007 ng/l (0.26 Bq/l). This LOD is well below the recommended action levels for ²²⁶Ra detection in children and pregnant women (C/P) set by the Clinical Decision Guide (NCRP Report no.161). Results for ²²⁶Ra obtained by this method are within ±7.0% of the target values of standard reference materials spiked in the urine. (authors)