박지영 (한국원자력연구원)

박지영 (한국원자력연구원)

박지영 (한국원자력연구원)

이다영 (한국원자력연구원)

김혜현 (한국원자력연구원)

This study aims to optimize measurement conditions for triple quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS) to enhance the accuracy and sensitivity of trace plutonium (Pu) isotope analysis in environmental samples. ICP-MS/MS significantly improves analytical specificity by selectively removing within the reaction cell, effectively suppressing isobaric interferences from uranium isotopes, particularly ²³⁸U. Key instrumental parameters for measuring Pu isotopes (²³⁸Pu, ²³⁹Pu, ²⁴⁰Pu, and ²⁴¹Pu) – including ion kinetic energy, reaction gas flow rates and purity – were comprehensively characterized and systematically optimized. Optimal measurement conditions were established using uranium and plutonium standard solutions, and analytical accuracy was validated through comparisons with results from multi-collector ICP-MS (MC-ICP-MS). Additionally, certified reference material (CRM) of sediment matrices were analyzed to verify improvements in accuracy, precision, and detection limits. The results from this research are expected to significantly enhance environmental radioactivity monitoring and emergency response by providing a reliable analytical method for Pu isotope quantification.