These test methods are designed to show whether a given material meets the purchaser's specifications.

An assay is performed to determine whether the material has the specified plutonium content.

Determination of the isotopic content of the plutonium is made to establish whether the effective fissile content is in compliance with the purchaser's specifications.

Impurity content is verified by a variety of methods to ensure that the maximum concentration limit of specified impurities is not exceeded. Determination of impurities is also required for calculation of the equivalent boron content (EBC).

1.1 These test methods cover procedures for the chemical, mass spectrometric, spectrochemical, nuclear, and radiochemical analysis of nuclear-grade plutonium metal to determine compliance with specifications.