X-Ray Fluorescence-Based Screening Method For Uranium Contamination

Uranium, which is used as nuclear fuel, is a radioactive material, and screening for uranium contamination is often performed by radiation measurements. However, a method targeting the number of atoms is more effective than radiation measurements for detecting uranium, which is a long-half-life nuclide with very low specific radioactivity. X-ray fluorescence analysis is one such analytical method that is suitable for screening measurements because of the simple pretreatment required. In this article, the properties of uranium and the superiority of X-ray fluorescence analysis as a screening method for uranium contamination are described first. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive overview of screening methods based on X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis for uranium-contaminated wounds, on the basis of our recent studies. These methods can be used in radiation emergency medicine. In addition, we discuss methods based on total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) analysis for analyzing uranium-contaminated drainage water which will be found in the decommissioning field of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.