Abstract

High resolution optogalvanic spectroscopy, excited using near-infrared semiconductor diode lasers, has been utilized for the determination of ²³⁵⋃/²³⁸⋃ isotopic ratios for uranium and uranium compounds.1,2 The samples ranged from depleted (0.27%) to enriched (20%) ²³⁵⋃ abundance. The goal of this effort has been to develop a technique that is suitable for use in the field for measurements at moderate precision. Glow discharge sampling can be conveniently accomplished in such settings, and diode lasers are sufficiently rugged and simple for incorporation into routine instruments. The concept of using high resolution optogalvanic spectroscopy for isotopic analysis has been also considered by Keller³, Tong⁴, Niemax⁵, and Edelson⁶.

© 1996 Optical Society of America