DESIGNING AND PLANNING FOR A CLASS 100 CLEAN LABORATORY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLE MANAGEMENT AT THE SEIBERSDORF ANALYTICAL LABORATORY

In 1992 the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) undertook an initiative to build a \"high sensitivity analytical facility\" at the Agency's Seibersdorf Analytical Laboratory (SAL). The primary objective for this facility would be to provide the IAEA with an independent capability for screening of environmental samples and for measuring the isotopic composition of trace uranium and plutonium in environmental samples. In September 1993, the U.S. Government provided extra budgetary funding to the IAEA to support construction of a Class 100 Clean Laboratory at SAL. The Class 100 Clean Laboratory to be constructed at SAL will initially provide for increased analytical measurement capability that includes (a) gamma spectrometry and alpha-particle spectrometry to screen for the presence of fission product radio-isotopes and alpha-active elements such as Tu, U, Pu, Am, and Po; (b) X-ray fluorescence spectrometry to screen for the presence of U or other important elements in smear samples, and (c) thermal ionization mass spectrometry to measure the isotopic composition of U or Pu. Additional activities will also include preparation of sampling media and equipment, splitting of samples for outside distribution, sample archiving and preparation or distribution of blank, control, and reference samples for quality assurance. This paper will describe the planned and recommended design and features of the Class 100 Clean Laboratory and plans for its operation and uses in support of IAEA missions.