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Determination of 226Ra in sediments by ICP-MS: A comparative study of three sample preparation approaches

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Abstract

Three protocols (Method I: ion chromatography (IC) and extraction chromatography (EC), Method II: precipitation followed by IC, and Method III: adsorption onto MnO2 followed by IC-EC) were investigated to determine their applicability for the separation and pre-concentration of 226Ra in sediments. 226Ra recoveries, measured using the isotope dilution method with 228Ra as yield tracer, and the removal of spectral and non-spectral interferences were evaluated. The formation of polyatomic interferences at m/z = 226 from elements found in the matrix of sediments was also investigated to assess the level of separation required. Methods I and III were found to be the most effective with respect to recoveries and interference removal. The efficiency of a rapid microwave based protocol for the complete digestion of 1 g of sediment is also described. The method was tested and 226Ra concentrations in the millibecquerel range (fg) were determined in a standard reference material and sediment cores collected from Lake Baikal.

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Author notes

  1. V. N. Epov

    Present address: CNRS UMR 5034, Hélioparc, 2, Av. du Président Angot, 64053, Pau, Pyrznées, France

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Environmental and Resources Studies, Trent University, 1600 West Bank Drive, Peterborough, ON, K9J 7B8, Canada

    D. Larivière, D. K. Brownell, V. N. Epov, R. J. Cornett & R. D. Evans

  2. Radiation Protection Bureau, 775 Brookfield Road, Address Locator 6302A, Ottawa, ON, K1A 1C1, Canada

    R. J. Cornett

Authors
  1. D. Larivière
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  2. D. K. Brownell
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  3. V. N. Epov
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  4. R. J. Cornett
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  5. R. D. Evans
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Larivière, D., Brownell, D.K., Epov, V.N. et al. Determination of 226Ra in sediments by ICP-MS: A comparative study of three sample preparation approaches. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 273, 337–344 (2007). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-007-6870-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-007-6870-3

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