Re: Uranium hair analysis?

[Ron_Dobey_at_MU-EHS-PO1@ext.missouri.edu]

     Barbara, 
     
        Hair can be used for trace elemental analysis via neutron 
     activation analysis.  We've done some here at the University of 
     Missouri Research Reactor.  Drop me an e-mail at my work address and I 
     can hook you up with the right people if you need better information.
     
     Ron Dobey,  CHP
     University of Missouri-Columbia
     EHSRON@MUCCMAIL.MISSOURI.EDU


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Uranium hair analysis?
Author:  radsafe@romulus.ehs.uiuc.edu at internet-ext
Date:    10/21/96 12:02 PM


Dear radsafers:
     
I am looking at a laboratory report which purports to identify toxic elements 
in individuals by analyzing the individuals' hair.  One of the items 
identified is uranium.  I have seen these reports on a couple of other 
occasions, and I am very concerned about the reliability and/or validity of 
this analysis.  The paperwork I have does not describe the analytical method 
used.  It reports only a parts per million number, and indicates (at least on 
this report) that the uranium in this individual is well over two standard 
deviations above the mean.  I am skeptical of the contents of this report, 
but would like to hear others opinions before I discuss this with the lab.
     
Barbara L. Hamrick,
Los Angeles County Radiation Management 
BLHamrick@aol.com