1.1 This test method describes the nondestructive assay of scrap or waste for plutonium content using passive thermal-neutron coincidence counting. This test method provides rapid results and can be applied to a variety of carefully sorted materials in containers as large as 208-L drums. It has been used to assay items whose plutonium content ranges from 0.01 to 6000 g.

1.2 This test method requires knowledge of the relative abundances of the plutonium isotopes to determine the total plutonium mass.

1.3 This test method may not be applicable to the assay of scrap or waste containing other spontaneously fissioning nuclides.

1.4 This test method assumes the use of shift-register-based coincidence electronics (1).

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, 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.