Most environmental professionals are well-versed in chemical analysis methods and instrumentation. However, when it comes to radiochemistry, many do not feel comfortable when requesting testing or developing a statement of work (SOW). Even for those with a relatively sound background, there are some tips that may help reduce turnaround time (TAT), save costs for a project, or allow for more sampling points for a given analysis budget. Examples of method choices that may benefit those affected by the Coal Combustion Residuals (CCR) groundwater monitoring requirements will be presented.

Topics the presentation will cover:
• Primary instrumentation employed for radiochemical analyses
• Pros/cons of each major instrumentation type
• Common methods available, and typical MDC achieved
• Variations on methods that may benefit a project
• Importance of choosing appropriate methods
• Variations on methods that may benefit a project – example from CCR.