ASTM C1108-23 PDF

Overview

ASTM C1108-23: Standard Test Method for Plutonium by Controlled-Potential Coulometry specifies procedures for quantifying dissolved plutonium in unirradiated, nuclear-grade materials. Developed by ASTM Committee C26 on the Nuclear Fuel Cycle, this test method uses controlled-potential coulometry, a highly precise electroanalytical technique, to determine the plutonium content in both solutions and solids. The optimized plutonium sample range is 5 mg to 20 mg, following sample dissolution according to ASTM C1168. Coulometric calculations are based on principles such as Ohm’s Law and the Faraday Constant, ensuring reliable, SI unit-based results.

Key Topics

• Controlled-Potential Coulometry: The method involves redox reactions at a working electrode under precisely maintained potentials to isolate plutonium measurement from interfering species.
• Sample Purity and Preparation: Only high-purity, nuclear-grade plutonium is suitable. Samples must be dissolved using prescribed acids and safety procedures due to the radioactivity and toxicity of plutonium.
• Electrolyte Selection: Compatible electrolytes include nitric acid, perchloric acid, hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid. Each electrolyte's suitability is influenced by the presence of interfering ions and specific analysis requirements.
• Interference Management: Procedures are outlined to identify and manage common interferences, such as iron, nitrites, sulfate, fluoride, and oxygen. Proper handling and chemical separation are critical to preventing inaccurate results.
• Calibration and Quality Control: Electrical calibration incorporates high-precision standards. Quality control standards, chemical separation, and compliance with ASTM nuclear measurement guidance ensure method integrity.
• Safety Considerations: Handling plutonium and associated chemicals requires specialized laboratory infrastructure, including gloveboxes, fume hoods, and strict adherence to safety, health, and regulatory requirements.

Applications

• Nuclear Safeguards and Non-Proliferation: Accurate plutonium measurement is vital for material accountability and safety within nuclear facilities. This test method supports compliance with international nuclear safeguards by delivering traceable, reproducible results.
• Quality Control in Nuclear Fuel Manufacturing: The method is employed in analytical laboratories to verify plutonium content in manufacturing processes and finished nuclear fuel materials.
• Research and Development: Laboratories utilize this technique for basic research into plutonium chemistry and the development of new nuclear materials.
• Environmental and Regulatory Compliance: Facilities dealing with nuclear materials use ASTM C1108-23 as part of their broader environmental monitoring and regulatory reporting obligations.
• Nuclear Safety Assurance: The method's accuracy and robustness provide essential data for nuclear criticality safety analysis.

Related Standards

Several ASTM standards supplement and support the implementation of ASTM C1108-23, ensuring a harmonized approach to plutonium measurement:

• ASTM C1168 – Practice for Preparation and Dissolution of Plutonium Materials for Analysis
• ASTM C1009 – Guide for Quality Assurance Programs in Analytical Laboratories Within the Nuclear Industry
• ASTM C1068 – Guide for Qualification of Measurement Methods in Nuclear Applications
• ASTM C1210 – Guide for Measurement System Quality Control in Analytical Chemistry for Nuclear Industry
• ASTM C859 – Terminology Relating to Nuclear Materials
• ASTM C1156 – Calibration for Analytical Measurement in the Nuclear Fuel Cycle
• ASTM C1128 – Guide for Preparation of Working Reference Materials for Nuclear Fuel Analysis
• ASTM E691 – Practice for Interlaboratory Precision Evaluation

By aligning with established international measurement practices, ASTM C1108-23 offers laboratories a robust, quality-controlled method for the sensitive, accurate determination of plutonium-crucial for regulatory compliance, nuclear safety, and efficient fuel cycle management.