RESL'S CORE ANALYTICAL FUNCTIONS

ANALYTICAL MEASUREMENTS

The majority of the analytical chemistry measurements at RESL are in conjunction with the two large programs that reside at the laboratory. The programs are the Mixed-Analyte Performance Evaluation Program (MAPEP) and DOE Laboratory Accreditation Program (DOELAP). The analytical capabilities allow RESL to act as the reference laboratory for these programs. RESL scientists also provide other analytical services, especially in the area of radiochemical analyses, to a number of external agencies including the United States Geological Survey and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). RESL chemists can perform analyses on environmental and programmatic samples including such matrices as: water, soil, vegetation, airborne particulates, feces, and urine.

Additional requested analyses are provided on an as-needed basis. Techniques and methodologies are developed to provide analyses of more difficult matrices. This allows RESL to retain our customer-oriented environment. Examples of development to provide these types of analyses include: radiochemistry analyses of liquid waste, soil tailings, and crushed slag from nuclear power-utilities, microwave digestion of inorganic elements from different types of matrices utilizing various Inductively-Coupled Plasma detection systems, and microwave extraction and analysis of organic compounds from different matrices utilizing Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry detection systems.

ANALYTICAL INSTRUMENTATION AND CAPABILITIES

RADIOCHEMISTRY

The most commonly requested alpha particle emitters analyses include: U, Th, Am, Pu; the beta particle emitting isotopes of Sr-89, Sr-90, H-3, Ni-63, Fe-55; and an array of gamma ray emitting isotopes. Many other radionuclides are analyzed for on an as-needed basis depending on customer needs and requirements. Instrumentation includes:

Alpha Spectrometry
Gamma Spectrometry
Gas Flow Proportional Counting
Photon Electron Rejecting Alpha Liquid Scintillation (PERALS)
Liquid Scintillation
Gross Alpha, Beta, and Gamma
2-pi Counting of Alpha Emitters

INORGANIC CHEMISTRY

The analysis of inorganic elements and metals encompass most of the periodic chart from lithium to uranium. Microwave digestion capabilities provide greater flexibility for the dissolution of various matrices. Instrumentation and uses include:

Inductively Coupled Plasma - Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) Quantification for elements from parts per billion through high parts per million (ppm) range Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) Identification and quantification for elements from parts per quadrillion through low ppm range.

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY

The organic compounds that can be analyzed encompass pesticides, semi-volatile and volatile organic compounds. Various extraction techniques, primarily microwave extraction of organic compounds from various matrices provide versatile extraction capabilities. Instrumentation and uses include:

Gas Chromatography - Separation and quantification of organic compounds Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry - Identification and quantification of organic compounds. Liquid Chromatography of explosives residue

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

RESL is internationally recognized for research and development of radiochemical methods. Numerous publications in actinide research and research for radioanalytical chemistry in general, bioassay, and whole body counting have resulted from RESL scientist's work. Several ASTM Standard Methods for analysis of radionuclides in environmental samples can be attributed to the scientists from RESL.  RESL work has resulted in a patent for the addition of environmental constituents to soil samples utilizing microencapsulation technology.

QUALITY CONTROL/QUALITY ASSURANCE

The analytical measurements are assured through participation in the following programs:

• NIST Traceability Program
• NIST Traceable Ion Chambers in Dosemetry Calibration Laboratory
• Water Pollution accreditation program for inorganic constituents.
• RESL is a unique government owned laboratory that is directly traceable to NIST.
  This direct traceability adds to the quality of RESL and its programs.
  

RESL'S PROGRAMMATIC AREAS

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For more information contact: James Dahlgran
dahlgrjr@inel.gov