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1.1 This test method covers the quantitative determination of ²⁴¹Am by gamma-ray spectrometry in plutonium nitrate solution samples that do not contain significant amounts of radioactive fission products or other high specific activity gamma-ray emitters.

1.2 This test method can be used to determine the ²⁴¹Am in samples of plutonium metal, oxide and other solid forms, when the solid is appropriately sampled and dissolved.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. Additionally, the non-SI units of electron volts, kiloelectron volts, and liters are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 This test method allows the determination of ²⁴¹Am in a plutonium solution without separation of the americium from the plutonium. It is generally applicable to any solution containing ²⁴¹Am.

5.2 The ²⁴¹Am in solid plutonium materials may be determined when these materials are dissolved (see Practice C1168).

5.3 When the plutonium solution contains unacceptable levels of fission products or other materials, this method may be used following a tri-n-octylphosphine oxide (TOPO) extraction, ion exchange or other similar separation techniques (see Test Methods C758 and C759).

5.4 This test method is less subject to interferences from plutonium than alpha counting since the energy of the gamma ray used for the analysis is better resolved from other gamma rays than the alpha particle energies used for alpha counting.

5.5 The minimal sample preparation reduces the amount of sample handling and exposure to the analyst.

5.6 This test method is applicable only to homogeneous solutions. This test method is not suitable for solutions containing solids.

5.7 Solutions containing ²⁴¹Am at concentrations as little as 1 × 10⁻⁵ g/L may be analyzed using this method. The lower limit depends on the detector used and the counting geometry. Solutions containing high concentrations may be analyzed following an appropriate dilution.