BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021 - Measurement of Radioactivity in the Environment

Discover the essential standard for measuring radioactivity in the environment with the BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021. This comprehensive document provides detailed methodologies for assessing the presence of Strontium 90 in soil, utilizing advanced techniques such as proportional counting and liquid scintillation counting. Released on August 17, 2021, this standard is a crucial resource for professionals in environmental science, radiological assessment, and related fields.

Key Features of BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021

• Standard Number: BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021
• Pages: 42
• Release Date: August 17, 2021
• ISBN: 978 0 539 16739 9
• Status: Standard

Comprehensive Methodologies for Accurate Measurement

The BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021 standard is meticulously crafted to ensure precise measurement of Strontium 90, a radioactive isotope, in soil samples. This document outlines two primary methods:

1. Proportional Counting

Proportional counting is a highly sensitive technique that allows for the detection of low levels of radioactivity. This method is particularly effective for measuring beta particles emitted by Strontium 90, providing reliable and accurate results. The standard provides detailed instructions on setting up and calibrating the equipment, ensuring that measurements are consistent and reproducible.

2. Liquid Scintillation Counting

Liquid scintillation counting is another powerful method detailed in this standard. It involves the use of a scintillation cocktail to detect beta radiation from Strontium 90. This technique is known for its high efficiency and ability to handle complex sample matrices. The standard offers comprehensive guidance on sample preparation, instrument calibration, and data interpretation, making it an invaluable resource for laboratories and research facilities.

Why Choose BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021?

Adopting the BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021 standard ensures that your measurements of radioactivity in soil are conducted with the highest level of accuracy and reliability. This standard is essential for:

• Environmental Monitoring: Ensure compliance with environmental regulations by accurately assessing the levels of Strontium 90 in soil.
• Research and Development: Support scientific research with precise data on radioactive contamination in the environment.
• Public Health and Safety: Protect communities by identifying and mitigating potential radiological hazards in the environment.

Stay Ahead with the Latest Standards

Keeping up with the latest standards is crucial for maintaining the integrity and credibility of your work. The BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021 standard reflects the most current methodologies and best practices in the field of radioactivity measurement. By integrating this standard into your operations, you demonstrate a commitment to excellence and a proactive approach to environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

The BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021 standard is an indispensable tool for professionals involved in the measurement of radioactivity in the environment. With its detailed methodologies for proportional counting and liquid scintillation counting, this standard provides the guidance needed to achieve accurate and reliable results. Whether you are involved in environmental monitoring, research, or public health, this standard is a critical resource for ensuring the safety and well-being of our environment and communities.

BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021

This standard BS EN ISO 18589-5:2021 Measurement of radioactivity in the environment. Soil is classified in these ICS categories:

• 17.240 Radiation measurements
• 13.080.01 Soil quality and pedology in general

This document describes the principles for the measurement of the activity of⁹⁰Sr in equilibrium with⁹⁰Y and⁸⁹Sr, pure beta emitting radionuclides, in soil samples. Different chemical separation methods are presented to produce strontium and yttrium sources, the activity of which is determined using proportional counters (PC) or liquid scintillation counters (LSC).⁹⁰Sr can be obtained from the test samples when the equilibrium between⁹⁰Sr and⁹⁰Y is reached or through direct⁹⁰Y measurement. The selection of the measuring method depends on the origin of the contamination, the characteristics of the soil to be analysed, the required accuracy of measurement and the resources of the available laboratories.

These methods are used for soil monitoring following discharges, whether past or present, accidental or routine, liquid or gaseous. It also covers the monitoring of contamination caused by global nuclear fallout.

In case of recent fallout immediately following a nuclear accident, the contribution of⁸⁹Sr to the total amount of strontium activity will not be negligible. This standard provides the measurement method to determine the activity of⁹⁰Sr in presence of⁸⁹Sr.

The test methods described in this document can also be used to measure the radionuclides in sludge, sediment, construction material and products by following proper sampling procedure.

Using samples sizes of 20 g and counting times of 1 000 min, detection limits of (0,1 to 0,5) Bq·kg^-1 can be achievable for⁹⁰Sr using conventional and commercially available proportional counter or liquid scintillation counter when the presence of⁸⁹Sr can be neglected. If⁸⁹Sr is present in the test sample, detection limits of (1 to 2) Bq·kg^-1 can be obtained for both⁹⁰Sr and⁸⁹Sr using the same sample size, counting time and proportional counter or liquid scintillation counter as in the previous situation.