A rapid method for determining 89Sr and 90Sr by Cerenkov counting

A new combination of simple preparation techniques for determining 89Sr and 90Sr in water and milk samples using alginate has been developed and tested. By means of Cerenkov counting without a long ingrowth period for 90Y, results can be obtained within 4 days. The detection limit is about 1 Bq/l for a sample volume of 0.2 l. Milk samples can be prepared without ashing. A Liquid Scintillation Counter TRI-Carb 3170TR/SL in low-level mode has been used for counting.