Rapid methods for determining 90Sr, 89Sr and 90Y in environmental samples: A survey

The need for a rapid method for the analysis of radiostrontiums in environmental samples was quite evident following the Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident. This survey examines the available methods for the rapid assay of these radionuclides in different matrices. Aspects such as sample preparation, specific isolation of radionuclides of interest and the counting techniques employed are considered. The survey shows that no one method has clear superiority over other available methods for this purpose. It is recommended that, to meet any emergency situations, the concerned laboratories should devise in-house, rapid analytical procedures using approaches with which they are more experienced. In the light of the availability of adequate techniques for chemical processing of samples, the survey also points to a need for improved β-particle spectrometric techniques. (orig.)