Application of radiochemical separation and α-spectrometry in individual dose monitoring for occupational plutonium internal exposure

Objective To explore the applicable conditions for using urine plutonium monitoring data to assess personal internal doses, in order to provide references for the occupational health management and the urine plutonium monitoring in nuclear sector. Methods Using some plutonium mixtures from DOE nuclear facilities, as an example, the urine plutonium levels were estimated through simulation calculation at 1 mSv effective dose arising from either acute or chronic inhalation of plutonium compounds, respectively. The results were compared with the typical detection limit of radiochemical separation and α-spectrometry. The feasibility of urine plutonium monitoring for dose assessment of internal radiation exposure was discussed. Results Only for type M plutonium compunds, 1 mSv detection limit can be achieved using radiochemical separation and α-spectrometry within 10 d after inhalation. Conclusions Before the monitoring plan of urine plutonium is made, detection limits of monitoring method should be considered. Internal dose could be accessed using workplace air monitoring and working hours when necessary. Key words: Plutonium mixtures; Urine plutonium monitoring; Internal expouse; Personal dose monitoring