Solid-phase extraction using Empore™ Radium Rad Disks to separate radium from thorium

Abstract

A new method is presented for rapid and selective enrichment of radium in natural samples using 225Ra as a chemical yield tracer. The new technique allows a complete separation of the target nuclide from the sample matrix with high separation factors for thorium and uranium. The use of Empore™ Radium Rad Disks combines the easy handling of column chromatography with the high selectivity and rapid extraction kinetics of solvent extraction chromatography. Following this new chemical approach, eluates are obtained which are well suited for α-spectrometric analysis of Ra, Th and U.