Trace-level impurity quantification in lead-cooled fast reactors using ICP-MS: Methodology and challenges

Lead-cooled fast reactors (LFR), such as the ALFRED Demonstrator, are pivotal in advancing nuclear technology. This study presents a method for quantifying trace-level impurities generated through various nuclear reactions in lead coolant. It combines inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry with Sr-resin-based matrix separation to analyze trace impurities in lead matrices. The Sr-resin effectively removes lead, a highly interfering matrix, enhancing the precision and reliability of detecting trace elements. The study evaluates the effectiveness of lead matrix removal and assesses the method’s reliability for monitoring trace impurities in LFR systems. The results indicate the method’s suitability for tracking small changes in lead composition during the operation of lead-cooled facilities.