A Method for the Rapid Ashing of Milk for Radionuclide Analysis

Summary A method for the rapid ashing of milk and milk products for analysis of radionuclides has been described. Based on the results of calcium analysis, this method is reproducible and accurate and is in agreement with the results obtained by the usual ashing procedures. With this method, ashing time for liter quantities of milk is shortened, and only the nominal attention of the operator is required, other than assembling and cleaning the apparatus. It has been found that with adequate equipment, one technician can reduce six to eight samples of milk to ash in one work day. This rapid method has been a major factor in establishing the practicality of a routine monitoring program for radionuclides in milk.