Book Description
Results of a literature search are presented, and analytical methods are proposed for studies of trace elements in coal, coal ash residue, soil, and vegetation. Increased trace element levels in soils and plants collected near power plants have been reported by several investigators. Many sample dissolution and analysis techniques were used in the reported studies. A nine-laboratory comparison of trace element analyses for a variety of methods showed excessive variation relative to quoted uncertainty limits. Analysis results from a subsequent four-laboratory comparison of instrumental nuclear techniques for trace element analysis agreed with the National Bureau of Standards certified values for all nine elements determined. Instrumental neutron activation analysis, spark source mass spectrometry, and atomic absorption spectrometry are proposed as primary analysis methods for coal, coal ash, soil, and plants in a Savannah River Laboratory study of trace elements. Bomb procedures are proposed for dissolution of samples.