Radioanalytical determination of Plutonium and Americium using ion exchange and extraction chromatography technique in urine

In-vitro monitoring of the radiation workers handling Pu and Am is carried out by the estimation of these radionuclides in the urine and fecal samples. In the earlier used method, Am in the urine samples was estimated by pre-concentration with bismuth phosphate/calcium oxalate precipitation followed by radiochemical separation using cation exchange chromatography. The chemical recovery obtained using this method was inconsistent and in the range of 30-70%. Hence a new improved method of estimation of americium by extraction chromatography using TRU resin was adopted and was standardized. Consistent recoveries above 66% were observed and the analysis could be completed within 3 hours. The procedure used for sequential separation of Pu by anion exchange chromatography and Am by extraction chromatography using TRU resin from urine gave consistent and good recoveries. The time required for separation is also less and the liquid waste generated is also reduced