Determination of Pb-210 and Po-210 in water samples

The main aim is to educate user with a basic understanding of radiochemical analysis and provide them with virtual experience in conducting analyses of alpha and beta emitters.

The user will acquire basic knowledge of main steps in analytical radiochemistry through practical examples of determining Po-210 and Pb-210 in water samples. At the beginning water is sampled from a tap, filtered and acidified. Afterwards, tracers are added to the sample and radionuclides are pre-concentrated. Then Po and Pb are separated on Sr Resin column, followed by spontaneous deposition of Po on sliver disc and precipitation of Pb. Finally, sources are measured by alpha-particle spectrometry and proportional counter.

Learning objectives

The student will learn and acquire following skills:

This scenario consists of eight major Quests, namely: