Standard Practice for the Separation of Americium from Plutonium by Ion Exchange

1.1 This practice describes the use of an ion exchange technique to separate plutonium from solutions containing low concentrations of americium prior to measurement of the ²⁴¹Am by gamma counting.

1.2 This practice covers the removal of plutonium, but not all the other radioactive isotopes that may interfere in the determination of ²⁴¹Am.

1.3 This practice can be used when ²⁴¹Am is to be determined in samples in which the plutonium is in the form of metal, oxide, or other solid provided that the solid is appropriately sampled and dissolved (See Test Methods C758, C759, and C1168).

1.4 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.