Papers from the October 1994 title symposium, held in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, detail techniques in inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the purpose of radionuclide determination, in sections on application areas including nuclear production; high-level waste characterization; env
Radionuclide detection by mass spectrometric techniques offers inherent advantages over conventional radiation detection methods. Since radionuclides decay at variable rates (half-lives) and via various nuclear transformations (i.e. emission of alpha, beta, and/or gamma radiation) their determination via radiation detection depends not only on decay systematics but also on detector technology. Radionuclide detection by direct atom measurement, however, is dependent only on technique sensitivity and is indifferent to decay mode. Evaluation of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS) indicates this method to be superior conventional radiation detection techniques for many radionuclides. This work discusses factors which influence detection by both methods. Illustrative applications of ICP/MS to the ultra-trace determination of several radionuclides, including 129I, are presented. 20 refs., 6 figs., 1 tab.
The first edition of Inductively Coupled Plasma Spectrometry andits Applications was written as a handbook for users who wanted abetter understanding of the theory augmented by a practical insightof how best to approach a range of applications, and to provide auseful starting point for users trying an approach or technique newto them. These objectives have been retained in the second editionbut a slight shift in emphasis gives the volume an overallperspective that is more forward looking. Structured into 11 chapters, the current edition is a thoroughrevision of the original, covering the principles of inductivelycoupled plasmas, instrumentation, methodology and applicationswithin environmental analysis, earth science, food science andclinical medicine. Each chapter, written by internationallyrecognised leaders in their specific subject areas, provides enoughdetail to be useful to both the new and experienced users. Fullaccount is taken of recent developments, such as high resolutioninstruments, novel detection systems and electrospraytechniques. Written for all analytical scientists but particularly thoseinvolved in atomic spectroscopy and in environmental, geochemical,clinical or food analysis, this timely and informative book will bean essential reference in their use of inductively coupled plasmasto achieve their own scientific goals.
Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) constitutes a very attractive alternative to radiochemical techniques for the determination of long-lived radionuclides considered critical for the safety of nuclear waste repositories. By measuring isotopic abundance instead of ionizing radiation, it is shown that ICP-MS should exhibit lower detection limits than liquid scintillation counting for the measurement of ? emitters with half-lives longer than ~104 years. However, a specific preparative chemistry is generally required prior to measurement in order to separate the analyte from major radioactive contaminants and potentially interfering isotopes. Original methods we have recently developed for the determination of three long-lived ? emitters: 93Zr, 107Pd and 135Cs in radioactive waste are described in this paper. The procedures involve various separative and measurement strategies, such as liquid-liquid extraction, Chromatographic separation as well as electrothermal vaporization coupled with ICP-MS. The performances are discussed in terms of selectivity and detection capabilities.
With a level of detection of one part in 1015, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is a highly sensitive tool in a huge range of analytical applications. Development of the technology continues rapidly, further opening up the scope for this invaluable analytical technique. Despite widespread interest and usage, little has been written to describe the analytical techniques and instrumentation in a format accessible to both new and experienced users of the technique. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry Handbook provides a thorough description of ICP-MS instrumentation and techniques, giving the reader sufficient knowledge to approach the technique with confidence.
