Analytical Chemistry

The NAREL radioanalytical program, which analyzes upwards of 10,000 samples annually, constitutes EPA's primary laboratory support for analyzing radiation. Typical samples include air, water, soil, vegetation, human tissue, and food and are analyzed for a number of radionuclides and/or hazardous materials. NAREL chemists continuously refine and update their analytical methods to respond to emerging environmental problems, such as the disposal of waste products contaminated with both radioactivity and toxic chemicals (mixed waste). Strict quality assurance standards are applied to all laboratory analyses, and NAREL routinely participates in intercomparison programs.

Inventory of Radiological Methodologies <PDF> - For Sites Contaminated with Radioactive Materials