NORM Testing
NORM ( Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material)
NORM is found naturally almost everywhere in low concentrations including in oil and gas deposits. It can be transported along with gas and petroleum, decaying into other gaseous and solid radioactive particles as they travel and concentrating in such material as pipe scale and waste products. As such, NORM causes concerns in transportation, handling and disposal.
These radioactive elements can also be released during mineral extraction and processing. Combustion such as at coal fired power stations may also concentrate small amounts of NORM. Radon gas can accumulate in underground caverns, vaults, tunnels or sewer systems.
Since NORM waste is not part of the nuclear fuel cycle or a manmade radioactive substance they are exempt from the jurisdiction of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). Jurisdiction rests with each province or territory.
SRC Environmental Analytical Laboratories can carry out the testing listed below to determine whether materials meet the Unconditional Release Limits (URL). Using a gamma spectroscopy scan, solid material can be analyzed for NORM to detection limits equal to or lower than the URL. Liquid samples may need individual analyses for Ra-226, Pb-210, and Th-230 & 232 to achieve the required detection limits.
The following isotopes are regulated under the NORM guidelines:
- Uranium 238 series
- Thorium 230
- Radium 226
- Lead 210
- Thorium 232
- Radium 228
- Thorium 228
- Potassium 40
Contact the lab for further information.
Brochure
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Saskatchewan Research Council |
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http://www.src.sk.ca/ |
