Improved Protocol for the Quantification of Actinides (Th, U, Np, Pu, Am, and Cm) Using Electron Probe Microanalysis

Measurements of highly radioactive actinides such as Np, Pu, Am, or Cm in as-fabricated irradiated nuclear fuels are crucial to improve the safety and performance fuel cycle, but also necessary find solutions environmental impact long-lived waste. Currently, most common technique measuring quantity distribution is electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). However, accurate analysis by EPMA accompanied numerous obstacles interferences M-line X-ray region, absorption edges, lack reference materials. Therefore, measurement protocol samples requires further investigation importantly facilitation. Here, we establish a guideline for precise quantification actinide elements (Th, U, Cm) fabricated spent fuels. For this purpose, have characterized actinide-bearing visualize spectral interferences, list peak, background positions employ standardless calibration curve method measurements Am Cm. This newly derived analytical was successfully tested on an sample can be now implemented improved actinides.