The discussion revolves around determining the maximum concentration of radioactive particles, specifically Cs-137 and Sr-90, in water. Participants explore methods for measuring these concentrations and the factors influencing solubility in different water types.
Participants express uncertainty regarding the maximum concentration of Cs-137 and Sr-90, with multiple competing views on the factors influencing solubility and measurement methods. The discussion remains unresolved.
Participants note the importance of distinguishing between dissolved ions and particles, and the potential impact of environmental factors on solubility. There is also a lack of consensus on whether to focus on freshwater or seawater conditions.
One could use a gamma spectrometer to measure the activity of a sample, then compare to a prepared calibration standard. Or one could take a sample, remove the water, measure the mass of the precipitate and the activity, and perhaps used an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) emission test to determine the amount of Cs and/or Sr.winnie_t said:Hi,
does anyone know how I can find out the max. concentration of Cs-137 and Sr-90 in water?
Astronuc said:One could use a gamma spectrometer to measure the activity of a sample, then compare to a prepared calibration standard. Or one could take a sample, remove the water, measure the mass of the precipitate and the activity, and perhaps used an inductively coupled plasma (ICP) emission test to determine the amount of Cs and/or Sr.
winnie_t said:but wouldn't there be a standard max. concentration at which point no more Cs or Sr can dissolve in water?
nikkkom said:Depends on salt. Example
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CsCl
"Solubility in water 1865 g/L"
(you could find it yourself).
You asked "does anyone know how I can find out the max. concentration of Cs-137 and Sr-90 in water?" - IOW, you asked specifically about Cs-137, not caesium in general.
Long before a salt solution with Cs-137 (say CsCl) start approaching saturation, it will be radiating millions of rem/h of gamma.
Well is this about dissolved or particles. Assuming it's of elemental origin, one would probably use the solubility constant for CsOH or Sr(OH)2. But then is one referring to seawater or freshwater, and there could be other compounds that enhance or hinder solution. Also, Cs and Sr are likely deposited on dust or other solid material.winnie_t said:but wouldn't there be a standard max. concentration at which point no more Cs or Sr can dissolve in water? Is this not some data I can find rather to calculate if I don't have to opportunity for an experiment?