ASTM D3972-09

This test method was developed to measure the radioactivity of uranium isotopes in environmental waters or waters released to the environment, and to determine whether the uranium-isotope concentrations are below the maximum amounts allowable by any regulatory statute.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of alpha-particle-emitting isotopes of uranium in water by means of chemical separations and alpha pulse-height analysis (also known as alpha-particle spectrometry). Uranium is chemically separated from a water sample by coprecipitation with ferrous hydroxide, anion exchange, and electrodeposition. The test method applies to soluble uranium as well as to any uranium that might be present in suspended matter in the water sample. This test method is applicable for uranium processing effluents as well as substitute ocean water. When suspended matter is present, an acid dissolution step is added to assure that all of the uranium dissolves. It is the user's responsibility to ensure the validity of this test method for waters of untested matrices.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 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. Specific warning statements are given in Section 9.