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Environmental Sampling and Analytical Methods (ESAM) Program

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Updates to Selected Analytical Methods for Environmental Remediation and Recovery (SAM)

March 2019 Update

In August 2018, EPA published a rapid method for sodium hydroxide fusion of limestone matrices prior to analysis. The method should be used for preparation of limestone samples to be analyzed for:

  • Americium-241
  • Plutonium-238
  • Plutonium-239
  • Radium-226
  • Strontium-90
  • Uranium-234
  • Uranium-235
  • Uranium-238

The rapid method is summarized and provided in the Addendum for: Rapid Method for Sodium Hydroxide Fusion of Limestone Matrices Prior to Americium, Plutonium, Strontium, Radium, and Uranium Analyses for Environmental Remediation Following Radiological Incidents.

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Environmental Sampling & Analytical Methods (ESAM) Program