About this course

This course provides an in-depth introduction to the analysis and radiochemical separation of radionuclides from environmental samples. The course is structured as a comprehensive analytical chain - from sampling and pretreatment to measurement, interpretation, and reporting. Students learn how to assess the sources and history of sample material through practical laboratory work integrated with theoretical lectures.

Description of lectures and laboratory exercises:

The course follows a logical progression in which theory and practice reinforce one another.

Theoretical overview:

The course begins with a review of the properties of radionuclides and types of radiation. The focus then shifts to gamma spectrometry using HPGe and NaI(Tl) detectors, before we discuss methods for sampling and sample decomposition. Key topics include radiochemical separation (with particular emphasis on plutonium), liquid scintillation for beta emitters, and alpha spectrometry. The course also covers the use of mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for the analysis of long-lived nuclides and source identification via isotope ratios.

Laboratory work: Through 6-8 practical assignments, students gain experience with the entire analytical workflow on relevant environmental samples. This includes:

• Sampling and preliminary gamma spectrometry

• Chemical pretreatment and separation

• Sample preparation via electrodeposition for alpha spectrometry

• Comparison of complementary measurement methods to validate results

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

• Master the key principles of measuring gamma-, beta-, and alpha-emitting radionuclides.

• Explain various radiochemical separation methods and their applications.

• Identify radionuclides relevant to environmental studies, including risk assessments, nuclear forensics, medicine, and industry.

Skills:

• Analyze and understand potential sources of error in radiometric measurements.

• Apply scientific literature to design optimal sampling and analysis protocols.

• Perform advanced radiochemical separations in a laboratory setting.

General competence:

• Perform sampling independently, analysis, and reporting of radionuclides in given case studies.

• Communicate technical and scientific information professionally, both in writing and orally.

  • Learning activities

    The course combines 40-45 hours of lectures and case studies with approximately 60 hours of supervised laboratory work (one day per week for 12 weeks, 6-8 laboratory exercises). Support is provided through laboratory supervision, reading materials, and review of written reports.

  • Teaching support

    Lectures, laboratory supervision, literature (textbook and professional articles), guidance on report writing.

  • Syllabus

    Jukka Lehto; Xiaolin Hou, Chemistry and Analysis of Radionuclides: Laboratory Techniques and Methodology. Supporting literature will be in Canvas.

  • Prerequisites

    KJM120, RAD210

  • Recommended prerequisites

    KJM240

  • Assessment method

    Total assessment:

    • Home exam (50%)
    • Laboratory reports (50%)

    Both parts must be passed.

    Students who have previously passed one or more components of the overall assessment in the course do not need to complete these components again when retaking the course.

    Grading system: A-E/Fail.

  • About use of AI

    K3 - Full use of AI.

    The use of AI is permitted, but it must comply with the Guidelines for Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at NMBU.

    Descriptions of AI-category codes.

  • Examiner scheme

    An external examiner will be used to evaluate the exam.

  • Mandatory activity

    The first lecture, laboratory exercises and oral presentation are mandatory. A written final report from all laboratory analyses is also mandatory.

  • Notes

    Students who want to take the course must apply for admission in Studentweb no later than January 20th. After that, the places in the course will be distributed.

    If there are few students, the course may either be postponed by one year or offered with an alternative teaching arrangement.

  • Teaching hours

    Lectures and case work: 40-45 hours.

    Laboratory exercises: approx. 60 hours in the laboratory (1 day/week x 12 weeks).

    Individual report/journal writing, group work and follow-up.

  • Preferential right

    M-RAMI

  • Reduction of credits

    5 ECTS reduced against KJM350

  • Admission requirements

    Science.