Abstract
The production of molybdenum-99 (99Mo) using low-enriched uranium targets (< 20% 235U) dispersed in aluminum (UAlx) is a very promising strategy towards the independence in 99Mo local production. A thorough control must be performed to ensure that these targets meet the regulatory requirements to achieve the expected efficiency in the reactor. The determination of the targets’ composition is of high interest, because the distribution of Al in different phases may have an impact on the U concentration. Among the techniques used for this purpose, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) stands out because of its high sensitivity and precision, allowing for simultaneous determination of several elements in a variety of samples and matrices. However, because U exhibits a complex emission spectrum, spectral interferences are prone to affect the analysis of Al, calling for time consuming preparation steps to remove the U from the matrix. This study proposes a method of direct determination of Al in UAlx targets through the selection of specific emission lines enabled by the evaluation of the associated interferences on the recovery values.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
