Further Studies of the Metabolism of Pu239 in Adult Beagles

Abstract

Studies of excretion, plasma concentration, and soft tissue retention of Pu239 in adult beagles have been extended through the period 4–8 years following a single intravenous injection. Rate of excretion was low and consistent with extrapolation of results of earlier studies; hence, the retention equation for the first 4 years can be used to 8 years. Terminal plasma concentrations were lower than predicted. Long term liver retention of Pu239 increased as dose level decreased. Quantitative analysis showed that the plutonium injected was at least 98 per cent Pu(IV) and not more than 2 per cent Pu(VI).