Determination of99Tc in reactor loop decontamination liquid waste using extraction chromatography

Abstract

A new analytical method has been developed to determine99Tc in samples of aqueous radioactive waste containing high levels of60Co (103–106 Bq/l) in mixed forms (simple cationic60Co2+ and coordinated complex forms). The method consists of selective extraction of the99Tc with a combination of cation exchange and solid-phase extraction resins under strong acid conditions. Quantification of the isolated99Tc is accomplished using liquid scintillation counting. The method provides high recoveries (>98%), is simpler than classical solvent extraction methods, eliminates the use of chlorinated organic solvents and the time of analysis is reduced by a factor of 2 when compared to solvent extraction methods.