ISO 13163 specifies the determination of lead-210 (210Pb) activity concentration in samples of all types of water using liquid scintillation counting (LSC). For raw and drinking water, the sample should be degassed in order to minimize the ingrowth of 210Pb from radon-222 (222Rn). The laboratory ensures the suitability of this test method for the water samples tested.
ISO 13163 provides a test method that measures the 210Pb activity concentrations in the range of less than 20 mBq⋅l-1 to 50 mBq⋅l-1. These values are achieved with a counting time between 180 min and 720 min for a sample volume from 0,5 l to 1,5 l. Higher 210Pb activity concentrations can be measured by either diluting the sample or using smaller sample aliquots or both.
ISO 13163 on LSC for 210Pb is used by:
Radioactivity from several naturally occurring and anthropogenic sources is present throughout the environment. Thus, water bodies (e.g., surface water, groundwater, seawater) can contain radionuclides of natural or human-made origins.
ISO 13163 provides a test method using liquid scintillation counting to assess the quality of drinking water (including mineral waters and spring waters) with respect to its radionuclide content. ISO 13163 gives guidance to monitor radionuclide activity concentrations in water resources (groundwater, river, lake, sea, etc.).
EN ISO 13163:2019
ISO 13163:2013