A study for the selection of NPE-free cocktails for LSC routine measurements.

In this paper a study for the selection of an NPE (nonylphenol ethoxylates)—free cocktail is discussed in order to be used for our routine liquid scintillation counting measurements. The NPE are added in the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals)—list of amendments to Annex XIV, as chemicals which can't be used anymore (Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/999). Nine NPE-free cocktails were bought from different producers and investigated with respect to the homogeneity, background level and influence on counting efficiency for different radionuclides. Several sample matrices were considered for direct measurement of 3H and 14C. Based on this study we could select the best cocktail which fulfills our requirements for routine analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]