A method for the measurement of 99Tc by Quadrupole ICP-MS in dry fallout and sea grass samples

Abstract

A method for the detection of "Tc by ICP-MS in environmental samples is proposed and explained in detail. This method combines the capabilities of anion exchange chromatographic TEVA-Spec' resin with prior isotope concentration using solvent extraction to Tn'butylphosphate. The problem that the excess of Mo in the solution analyzed by ICP-MS causes in the instrumental response at m/z ratio 99 is described in detail, and the proposed solution takes the form of the referred radlochemical method. The realistic limits of detection of this technique (bearing in mind the particular methodology here applied) are in the range of 20-70 mBq/kg when treating mass amounts in the range of 20-125 g dry weight. A few environmental samples proceeding from a region unaffected by any closer nuclear industry (the Southwest of Spain) are analyzed for checking '9Tc concentration.