Nu Instruments | Quantitative Analysis of ²³⁷Np in a Uranium Matrix
This application note shows how medium resolution and Nu Quant baseline correction support quantitative ²³⁷Np analysis in uranium matrices. The method reduces reliance on matrix-matched blanks while maintaining strong calibration and spike recovery performance.
Measuring ²³⁷Np in a uranium matrix is challenging because the strong ²³⁸U signal can affect neighbouring masses. Traditional approaches often require time-consuming chemical separation and matrix-matched blank correction.
The Attom method uses medium resolution at around 4000 and Nu Quant’s “valley with baseline” correction to improve baseline linearity. This allows the analyte signal to be integrated more accurately, even in the presence of uranium-related background.
Calibration data showed excellent linearity, with a reported R² of 0.99997 in 100 ppm uranium matrix. Spike recovery tests across different uranium concentrations demonstrated the value of baseline correction without requiring matrix-matched blanks.
Key Takeaways:
- Medium resolution helps reduce uranium tailing effects near ²³⁷Np.
- u Quant baseline correction supports accurate integration without matrix-matched blanks.
- Calibration linearity and spike recoveries demonstrate strong analytical performance.
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