ASTM C1517-09

This test method is applicable to uranium metal, uranium oxides and compounds soluble in nitric or sulfuric acid, and uranium solutions which can be converted to uranium oxide (U₃O₈) in a muffle furnace. It may be used to determine the impurities in uranium compounds as listed in Specifications C 753, C 776, C 788, and C 967.

1.1 This test method describes the steps necessary for the preparation and determination of impurity metals in uranium metal and uranium compounds by DC arc emission spectroscopy.

1.2 The method is valid for those materials that can be dissolved in acid and/or converted to an oxide in a muffle furnace (see Practice C 1347).

1.3 This method uses the carrier distillation technique to selectively carry the impurities into the arc, leaving the uranium oxide in the electrode. If it is necessary to determine the carrier metal(usually a silver or strontium, or gallium compound) as an impurity, another technique must be chosen for that element.

1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.