We propose to complete the work on development of simplified methods of solubility testing of uranium on air filters initiated in Phase I, and further to expand the work to other transuranic radionuclides. Yellowcake samples that have been characterized by the results will be compared as a test of the new method. A new technique will also be developed to rapidly dissolve and extract the insoluble uranium from the air filter at the end of the volubility test procedure. This modification to the test should eliminate the energy quenching of the spectrum observed in the Phase I work. Finally, these new techniques will then be applied to the analysis of isotopes of plutonium, curium, and uranium on air filters using sequential solvent extraction's to isolate each radionuclide.
Anticipated Results:A simplified method for volubility testing, with some limitations, was developed in Phase I of this work. The limitations will be resolved in Phase II and the new solubility test will be offered as a service by our separations chemistry lab, and will also be made available to other facilities, perhaps as a kit. Phase II work will also develop rapid methods to analyze transuranic radionuclides on air filters in a time frame that will make them useful for radiation protection purposes. This work, if successful, will also be offered as a commercial service.