Overview

This session introduces the fundamentals of radiochemistry, covering radioactivity in the environment, natural and anthropogenic decay chains and how radiochemical fingerprints help identify contamination sources. Participants will gain an overview of regulatory permits, compliance obligations. The session will present an overview of radiochemical method stages from sampling and sample preservation to radiochemical separation, purification, measurement, quality assurance and data interpretation. Finally the session highlights key consideration for engineers.

Agenda

Introduction:

• Radioactivity in the environment
• Decay chains
• Permits
• Compliance and fingerprints.

Overview of a method stages:

• Sample preparation
• Preconcentration Extraction chemistry and final measurement.

Things for engineers to consider

Speaker

Jane Caborn, Senior Business Manager, Cavendish Nuclear

A highly knowledgeable Senior Business Manager with 25+ years’ radiochemistry experience in the nuclear and defence industries, including assessing the behaviour, characteristics, and decontamination of radionuclides. Extensive technical expertise including analysis of provenance data, development of sampling and analysis strategies, radiological and non-radiological characterisation, data interpretation, validation and verification of waste stream inventories and waste routing. Excellent leadership and demonstratable experience of providing waste management technical consultancy to clients and key stakeholders. Recent projects have included being integral to the development of the metal treatment facility and expansion of laboratory capability. A Chartered Chemist and previous UKAS Technical Assessor for the ISO 17025 standard.

The material presented has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter’s own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE or the Nuclear Technology Special Interest Group. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

Time

12:00 - 13:30 GMT.

Software

The presentation will be delivered via Microsoft Teams. We recommend downloading the app from the Microsoft website, rather than using the web portal.