Separation and analysis of radioiodine in nuclear reprocessing solutions of high ionic strength

Ion chromatography (IC) can be used to separate radioiodine from fission products and other ionic species in complex reprocessing solution matrices. A preliminary concentration and separation of the radioiodine is performed using a column filled with a platinum-coated copper bed which converts all forms of iodine to iodide and selectively adsorbs the iodide. The separation is completed by employing an anion chromatographic system. The iodide peak aliquot is collected for subsequent radioanalysis by low energy photon spectroscopy. Results indicate quantitative separation and recovery of iodine. The entire system is automated under computer control and is able to handle small (l) and large (500 ml) sample sizes.