NWT developed the PWR/Q-CHEM program in late 1984 in order to provide utilities with a technique to validate their analytical procedures and to assess their laboratory capabilities relative to those of other utilities by analysis of blind samples. NWT developed BWR/Q-CHEM in mid-1987 to provide a similar service for BWRs. Both programs are supportive of the objectives outlined for spiked samples in INPO Good Practices CY-702, "Verification of Analytical Performance," INPO 83-017 (Rev. 1), November 1985 and the laboratory performance guidelines in "Guidelines for Chemistry at Nuclear Power Stations," INPO 88-021, September 1991.

Specifically, NWT provides chemical species standards in relevant PWR matrices on a quarterly basis to program participants. Blind standards are prepared from the key primary and secondary system parameters shown below. Three 250 ml bottles of each species are sent each quarter. Additional samples are available (see subscription form). Boron and lithium are included each quarter in the primary matrix portion of the primary coolant samples. An extra aliquot of each sample is included in the original shipping containers for return to NWT if concerns arise relative to the effects of shipment. After sample analysis, each utility summarizes its results and analysis techniques on a provided form and returns it to NWT.

Results can be submitted to NWT using the report form. When the results have been received, a quarterly report is issued summarizing and discussing utility results and the techniques employed for each analysis. Q-CHEM participants are identified by a letter in the report and the letter designation for each laboratory is disclosed in the report transmittal letters.

The cost of the basic NWT PWR/Q-Chem program is shown in the subscription form. Additional sample sets may also be acquired.

NWT also has developed custom programs for several utilities. If the standard Q-Chem program does not fulfill all of your needs, we will work with you to establish a more responsive program. Please see the Custom Q-Chem Samples page.

Questions regarding the Q-Chem program should be directed to Mike Miller or Mary Hyde at (408) 281-1100 or lab@nwtcorp.com.
 
 
Subscription Form
 

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Report Form
 

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PWR/Q-Chem Sample Descriptions

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