Uncertainties in 63Ni and 55Fe determinations using liquid scintillation counting methods.

The implementation of (63)Ni and (55)Fe determination methods in an environmental laboratory implies their validation. In this process, the uncertainties related to these methods should be analysed. In this work, the expression of the uncertainty of the results obtained using separation methods followed by liquid scintillation counting is presented. This analysis includes the consideration of uncertainties coming from the different alternatives which these methods use as well as those which are specific to the individual laboratory and the competency of its operators in applying the standard ORISE (Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education) methods.

Americium behaviour in plastic vessels.

The adsorption of (241)Am dissolved in water in different plastic storage vessels was determined. Three different plastics were investigated with natural and distilled waters and the retention of (241)Am by these plastics was studied. The same was done by varying vessel agitation time, vessel agitation speed, surface/volume ratio of water in the vessels and water pH. Adsorptions were measured to be between 0% and 70%. The adsorption of (241)Am is minimized with no water agitation, with PET or PVC plastics, and by water acidification.

Uranium contents and associated effective doses in drinking water from Biscay (Spain).

The determination of 234U and 238U content in drinking waters treated at four treatment plants supplying water to a set of municipalities located in northern Spain has given mean values of 1.14 mBq/L for 234U and 0.8 mBq/L for 238U. These contents, taking into account the population supplied with water and its distribution in age intervals, have allowed the determination of the annual intake of both radionuclides as well as the mean committed dose due to the ingestion of these radionuclides for which a value of 0.081 microSv/person is obtained.