The measurement of 36Cl and 129I in concrete wastes
Abstract
A method has been developed for the measurement of chlorine and iodine radionuclides in concrete wastes generated from the decommissioning of nuclear power stations. Sequential oxidation of 129I and 36Cl from samples of concrete takes less than 7 h and the method is relatively simple and can be used to reliably determine low levels of 129I and 36Cl. Generally, recoveries for the procedure are high (in excess of 70%) and large sample sizes can be tolerated (≡1–10 g). This paper describes the development of the method and demonstrates a relatively simple, repeatable process for the measurement of 129I and 36Cl in concrete wastes. The equipment and the methods used should be available at most reactor sites or nuclear plants.