When zirconium materials are used in nuclear applications, it is necessary that hafnium, a neutron absorber, be present only at very low concentrations.

This method is useful in testing materials for compliance with the compositional requirements as given in Specifications B 349, B 350, B 351, B 352, and B 353.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of hafnium in zirconium and zirconium alloys in concentrations greater than 0.003 %.

1.2 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. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8.