ASTM C 1463 : 2013

1.1These practices cover techniques suitable for dissolving glass samples that may contain nuclear wastes. These techniques used together or independently will produce solutions that can be analyzed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), radiochemical methods and wet chemical techniques for major components, minor components and radionuclides.

1.2One of the fusion practices and the microwave practice can be used in hot cells and shielded hoods after modification to meet local operational requirements.

1.3The user of these practices must follow radiation protection guidelines in place for their specific laboratories.

1.4Additional information relating to safety is included in the text.

1.5The dissolution techniques described in these practices can be used for quality control of the feed materials and the product of plants vitrifying nuclear waste materials in glass.

1.6These practices are introduced to provide the user with an alternative means to Test Methods C169 for dissolution of waste containing glass in shielded facilities. Test Methods C169 is not practical for use in such facilities and with radioactive materials.

1.7The ICP-AES methods in Test Methods C1109 and C1111 can be used to analyze the dissolved sample with additional sample preparation as necessary and with matrix effect considerations. Additional information as to other analytical methods can be found in Test Method C169.

1.8Solutions from this practice may be suitable for analysis using ICP-MS after establishing laboratory performance criteria.

1.9The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.10This 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Sections 10, 20, and 30.