Abstract

This paper, the fifth of a related series, describes the routine application of a rapid, high-precision procedure and a high resolution spectrograph to the isotopic analysis of uranium. The procedure, which evolved from the development described in previous papers of this series, includes a simple sample preparation and a hollow cathode source designed for rapid sample changing. The procedure also involves a high degree of automation and eliminates the reference measurement and background correction The precision at the level of naturally occurring uranium (0.7115% U²³⁵) measured under routine conditions, is ± 2.1% of the amount present for a single cathode determination expressed at the 95% confidence interval. In the vicinity of 90% U²³⁵ the precision is 0 07% of the amount present for a single cathode determination. Approximately 7 ½ min is required for a determination, including sample preparation, measurement, and calculations The maximum capacity of the instrument is over 60 samples per 8 hr day, the instrument is presently applied to a routine load varying from 20 to 50 samples per day. In addition to the U²³⁵ determination, a preliminary calibration and evaluation for U²³⁵ is included.

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P. Pianarosa, Y. Demers, and J. M. Gagné
J. Opt. Soc. Am. B 1(5) 704-709 (1984)

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James K. Brody
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