Glove Box Adaptation of a High-Resolution Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer for Analysis of Radioactive Materials

Abstract

A glove box adaptation of a high resolution atomic emission spectrometer (AES) is reported employing sequential radial viewing of an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) source for determination of trace metallic elements in plutonium bearing samples. The original compact ICP-AES unit was converted into separate units. All electronic and optical components were placed outside radioactive containment. The entire assembly of the ICP torch, radiofrequency coil, nebulizer, spray chamber, peristaltic pump, and drainage system were placed inside the glove box for the analysis of radioactive samples. All these modifications were achieved without any compromise on the analytical performance of the spectrometer. Operational experience of the instrument for analysis as well as additional information for the upkeep and maintenance of the same is described. Proper optical alignment of the ICP source and detection system was performed.

Keywords:

• AES
• atomic emission spectrometer
• ICP
• inductively coupled plasma
• radial viewing

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

The authors wish to thank Dr. A. Goswami, Head, Radiochemistry Division, for his keen interest and encouragement during the course of this work.