Capillary electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescent detection method using highly emissive probes for analysis of uranium in radioactive wastes

Haraga, Tomoko   ; Sato, Yoshiyuki*; Shibukawa, Masami*; Kameo, Yutaka ; Takahashi, Kuniaki ; Saito, Shingo*

Actinides (Th, U, Np, Pu, Am, Cm) are important nuclides for the analysis of radioactive wastes from nuclear facilities. In order to achieve simple and rapid analysis of actinides, capillary electrophoresis-laser-induced fluorescent detection method (CE-LIF) is one of the potential candidates. In this study, new emissive probes of uranium suitable for CE-LIF were developed. The detection and separation of uranyl ions were examined using several new emissive complexing probes, each of which possessed a fluorophore and a different chelating moiety. Using acyclic tetradentate probes, the highly sensitive fluorescent detection of uranyl ions was successfully achieved. The detection limit of mid-ppt levels was determined.