Soil samples prepared for radionuclide analyses by this practice can be used to monitor fallout distribution from nuclear facilities. This practice is intended to produce a homogeneous sample from which a relatively small aliquot (10 g) may be drawn for radiochemical analyses.

Most nuclear facilities fulfill major requirements of their monitoring programs by gamma-ray spectrometry measurements of soil. A widely used practice for these measurements is to fill a calibrated sample container, such as a Marinelli beaker (∼600-mL volume), with a homogenized soil sample. By preparing the entire soil core collection, sufficient homogeneous sample is available for radiochemical and gamma-ray spectrometry measurements.

1.1 This practice covers the preparation of surface soil samples collected for chemical analysis of radionuclides, particularly uranium and plutonium. This practice describes one acceptable approach to the preparation of soil samples for radiochemical analysis.

1.2 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. A specific hazard statement is given in Note 1.