Significance and Use
5.1 This test method is intended for the measurement of gross alpha- and beta-activity concentrations in the analyses of environmental and drinking waters. For samples submitted to satisfy regulatory or permit requirements, the submitter should assure that this or any other method used is acceptable to the regulator or permit issuer.
5.2 This test method is also applicable to the direct analysis of gross alpha- and beta-activity concentrations in water when low detection limits are not required. Direct analysis provides a rapid method for determination of gross alpha- and beta-activity concentrations when low detection limits are not required.
5.3 This test method is not capable of discriminating among alpha emitting radionuclides or among beta emitting radionuclides. Those intending to identify and quantify specific radionuclides should use test methods specific to the radionuclides of interest.
5.4 This test method may not be cited as a method for the determination of gross alpha- or beta-activity concentrations in a solid/soil matrix or the acid digestate of the same. The use of this test method for such applications brings the potential for serious bias and incomparability of results dependent on the matrix constituents, manner of sample preparation or treatment, or both.
Scope
1.1 This test method covers the measurement of gross alpha- and beta- activity concentrations in a homogeneous water sample. It is applicable to alpha emitters with activity concentration levels above 0.11 Bq/L (3 pCi/L) and beta emitters with activity concentration levels above 0.15 Bq/L (4 pCi/L). This test method is not applicable to samples containing radionuclides that are volatile under conditions of the analysis.
1.2 This test method may also be used for the direct measurement of gross alpha- and beta- activity concentrations in homogeneous water samples with alpha emitter activity concentration levels above 1.8 Bq/L (50 pCi/L) and beta emitter activity concentration levels above 3.7 Bq/L (100 pCi/L).
1.3 This test method was tested using single-operator tests.2,3 A collaborative study following the U.S. EPA “Protocol for the Evaluation of Alternate Test Procedures for Analyzing Radioactive Contaminants in Drinking Water” was performed. The results of this study are on file at ASTM Headquarters.4
1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to pCi/L that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. An exception is noted in Section 14.
1.5 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 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.
