Standard Test Method for the Determination of Total Hydrogen Content of Uranium Oxide Powders and Pellets by Carrier Gas Extraction

1.1 This test method applies to the determination of hydrogen in nuclear-grade uranium oxide powders and pellets to determine compliance with specifications. Gadolinium oxide (Gd₂O₃) and gadolinium oxide-uranium oxide powders and pellets may also be analyzed using this test method.

1.2 This standard describes a procedure for measuring the total hydrogen content of uranium oxides. The total hydrogen content results from absorbed water, water of crystallization, hydro-carbides and other hydrogenated compounds which may exist as fuel's impurities.

1.3 This test method covers the determination of 0.05 to 200 μg of residual hydrogen.

1.4 This test method describes an electrode furnace carrier gas combustion system equipped with a thermal conductivity detector.

1.5 The preferred system of units is micrograms hydrogen per gram of sample (μg/g sample) or micrograms hydrogen per gram of uranium (μg/g U).

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