Optimization of measurement of 63Ni in reactor waste samples using 65Ni as a tracer

Consistent, clean, and high chemical recovery is important for 63Ni analysis of low-level radioactive waste samples from nuclear power reactors. These samples generally contain numerous radionuclides in high concentrations which can interfere with nickel measurements. Chemical recovery of approx. 90% can be achieved consistently using an optimized procedure. The use of 65Ni as a chemical tracer was incorporated into such a procedure to provide sample-specific chemical recovery. eliminating error associated with using the average recovery value of several standards. Methods were also used to correct the contaminants of 55Fe, 58Co, and 60Co should they be present in separated fractions for measurement of 63Ni activity.