ASTM C1030-10R18 - Standard Test Method for Determination of Plutonium Isotopic Composition by Gamma-Ray Spectrometry

1.1 This test method is applicable to the determination of isotopic abundances in isotopically homogeneous plutonium-bearing materials. This test method may be applicable to other plutonium-bearing materials, some of which may require modifications to the described test method.

1.2 The procedure is applicable to items containing plutonium masses ranging from a few tens of milligrams up to the maximum plutonium mass allowed by criticality limits.

1.3 Measurable gamma ray emissions from plutonium cover the energy range from approximately 30 keV to above 800 keV. K-X-ray emissions from plutonium and its daughters are found in the region around 100 keV. This test method has been applied to all portions of this broad spectrum of emissions.

1.4 The isotopic abundance of the ²⁴²Pu isotope is not directly determined because it has no useful gamma-ray signature. Isotopic correlation techniques may be used to estimate its relative abundance Refs (1) and (2).2

1.5 This test method has been demonstrated in routine use for isotopic abundances ranging from 99 to <50 %  ²³⁹Pu. This test method has also been employed for isotopic abundances outside this range.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.