Determination of 237Np in environmental and nuclear samples: A review of the analytical method

A number of analytical methods has been developed and used for the determination of neptunium in environmental and nuclear fuel samples using alpha, ICP–MS spectrometry, and other analytical techniques. This review summarizes and discusses development of the radiochemical procedures for separation of neptunium (Np), since the beginning of the nuclear industry, followed by a more detailed discussion on recent trends in the separation of neptunium. This article also highlights the progress in analytical methods and issues associated with the determination of neptunium in environmental samples.

► Determination of Np in environmental and nuclear samples is reviewed.
► Various analytical methods used for the determination of Np are listed.
► Progress and issues associated with the determination of Np are discussed.