Radiochemical Analysis of Water

This report describes the methods and procedures used by the U.S. Geological Survey Tritium Laboratory to analyze natural waters for tritium activity. Samples having low activity are electrolytically enriched in cells with nickel and steel electrodes, and their tritium concentration is subsequently determined by liquid scintillation and gas phase counting techniques. Samples having high tritium concentrations can be counted directly, and no enrichment is required. Theory, calculations, equipment, and procedures are described in some detail.