Significance and Use
5.1 This test method is used to ascertain whether or not materials meet specifications for plutonium concentration or plutonium mass fraction.
5.1.1 The materials (nuclear grade plutonium nitrate solutions, plutonium metal, plutonium oxide powder, and mixed oxide and carbide powders and pellets) to which this test method applies are subject to nuclear safeguards regulations governing their possession and use. However, adherence to this test method does not automatically guarantee regulatory acceptance of the resulting safeguards measurements. It remains the sole responsibility of the user of this test method to ensure that its application to safeguards has the approval of the proper regulatory authorities.
5.1.2 When used in conjunction with appropriate certified reference materials (CRMs), this test method can demonstrate traceability to the international measurements system (SI).
5.2 Fitness for Purpose of Safeguards and Nuclear Safety Application—Methods intended for use in safeguards and nuclear safety applications shall meet the requirements specified by Guide C1068 for use in such applications.
5.3 A chemical calibration of the coulometer is necessary for accurate results.
FIG. 1 Example of a Cell Design Used at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL)
Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of milligram quantities of plutonium in unirradiated uranium-plutonium mixed oxide having a U/Pu ratio range of 0.1 to 10. This test method is also applicable to plutonium metal, plutonium oxide, uranium-plutonium mixed carbide, various plutonium compounds including fluoride and chloride salts, and plutonium solutions.
1.2 The recommended amount of plutonium for each aliquant in the coulometric analysis is 5 mg to 10 mg. Precision worsens for lower amounts of plutonium, and elapsed time of electrolysis becomes impractical for higher amounts of plutonium.
1.3 The quantity values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The quantity values with non-SI units are given in parentheses for information only.
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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 9.
1.5 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.
