This test method measures the presence of uranium and thorium in soil that occurs naturally and as a result of contamination from nuclear operations and uranium ore processing. The reporting detection levels (RDLs) of total uranium and thorium are well below the normal background in soil. The normal background level for uranium is between 3 and 5 μg/g in most geographic areas and slightly higher for thorium. The ²³⁵U enrichment is also measured from an initial sample pass through the instrument. The other less abundant uranium isotopes (²³⁴U and ²³⁶U) are measured down to a typical soil background level after sample concentration and a second sample analysis. This allows for calculation of individual isotopic uranium and total uranium activity. The majority of the uranium activity results from ²³⁴U and ²³⁸U.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of total uranium (U) and thorium (Th) concentrations in soils, as well as the determination of the isotopic weight percentages of ²³⁴U, ²³⁵U, ²³⁶U, and ²³⁸U, thereby allowing for the calculation of individual isotopic uranium activity or total uranium activity. This inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) method is intended as an alternative analysis to methods such as alpha spectroscopy or thermal ionization mass spectroscopy (TIMS). Also, while this test method covers only those isotopes listed above, the instrumental technique may be expanded to cover other long-lived radioisotopes since the preparation technique includes the preconcentration of the actinide series of elements. The resultant sample volume can be further reduced for introduction into the ICP-MS via an electrothermal vaporization (ETV) unit or other sample introduction device, even though the standard peristaltic pump introduction is applied for this test method. The sample preparation removes organics and silica from the soil by use of a high temperature furnace and hydrofluoric acid digestion. Thus, this test method can allow for sample variability of both organic and silica content. This test method is also described in ASTM STP 1291.

1.2 The analysis is performed after an initial drying and grinding sample preparation process, and the results are reported on a dry weight basis. The sample preparation technique used incorporates into the sample any rocks and organic material present in the soil. The method of sample preparation applied differs from other techniques, such as those found in Practice C999, which involve simply tumbling and sieving the sample; however, the user may select whichever technique is most appropriate to their needs.

1.3 A linear calibration is performed for total uranium and thorium over a concentration range from 5 to 5000 µg/L, using approximately 6 points. As with the data presented, it is suggested that the increments between points be less than or equal to a factor of ten. With a sample dilution factor of 200 resulting from the preparation, this equates to a concentration range in the samples from 1 to 1000 µg/g. For those samples estimated to be above that range by initial activity screening, a smaller aliquot is taken to a dilution of 1000, thereby extending the range to 5000 µg/g. It is important to note that the concentration measured directly from this calibration is the concentration of ²³⁸U. The standard values are adjusted for abundance and the abundances in the instrument database are modified to eliminate any automatic correction, as discussed further in the appropriate sections. The calibration range can be changed based on the needs of the user and the expected variation among samples.

1.4 Corrections to the measured isotopic ratios for mass bias effects are made by determining and applying a mass bias factor (see 13.3.1). This can be performed for each batch analyzed. Refer to Appendix X1 for an optional correction approach where this factor is determined and applied less frequently and a calibration correction of measured versus certified ratios is determined on a batch basis in the range of the samples analyzed.

1.5 The values stated in µg/g, µg/L or ng/g concentration, and Becquerel per gram (Bq/g) activity are the acceptable SI units. However, picocurie per gram (pCi/g) is frequently used in radiochemistry and established regulatory guidelines and will, therefore, also be regarded as standard in this test method.

1.6 Many of the quality control (QC) practices or checks in this test method (such as the QC standards used, their frequency and general sequence) reflect the guidelines set forth in EPA Method 6020 in SW-846. EPA Method 6020 is not strictly followed, however, because of the fact that it does not cover uranium and thorium analysis, or radioisotopic determinations. The quality control practices and checks used is subject to the discretion of the laboratory or user, and EPA Method 6020 should be referred to as a guideline.

1.7 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.