Optimization of procedure for identifying 238Pu, 239+240Pu in environmental samples using 237Pu tracer

Using U-240 isochronous cyclotron of Ukraine's NAS Institute for Nuclear Research, 237Pu isotope without a carrier in amount of 2,8 centre dot 104 0 Bq was received and extracted from 238U (α, 5π) 237Pu reaction, containing 236Pu (2,8%) and 238Pu (1,2%) impurities at the end moment of exposure. A technique for plutonium definition in environmental object (grounds, bottom sediments) is developed, which allows making plutonium radiochemical concentrations and extraction using KU-2-8 cationite. For routine analyzing of plutonium samples using 238U (p,3π) 236Np → 236Pu reaction, 238Pu was obtained with 238Pu content less than 2%. Chemical yield of 238,239Pu that was determined using 236Pu and 237Pu indicator, makes 50-60%