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Recently, the CCRI(II) Task Group on the use of mass spectrometry in radionuclide metrology distributed a survey to more than 250 NMIs, DIs, and relevant stakeholders to determine current and planned activities in the use of mass spectrometry for radionuclide measurements. There was a 20 % response rate from laboratories of all Regional Metrology Organizations (SIM, EURAMET, AFRIMETS, GULFMET, COOMET, and APMP), giving a wide breadth of activities and perspectives. Results on the number and designs/techniques of various mass spectrometry instrumentation in use, current application areas, and future projects (including chronometry and medical isotopes) were obtained. Specific challenges to metrological advances were recognized such as a lack of appropriate reference materials (and a need for calibration and quality control materials).

The results are available in the dedicated report

Participants were also asked about future activities they would like to see the task group take on; the vast majority (92 %) would like to have a workshop or similar information-sharing opportunity focused on radionuclide measurement by mass spectrometry, especially concerning certified reference materials, traceability, databases, and methods development. Therefore, the task group will hold the 16 May 2025 (i.e., the Friday before the next ICRM meeting) a follow-up workshop (“Current and Future Applications of Mass Spectrometry in Radionuclide Metrology”) at the NPL, and key takeaways are planned to be presented at that meeting. In addition, the task group is currently preparing a manuscript (“The Role of Mass Spectrometry in Radionuclide Metrology”) to be published later in 2025. A written report of potential metrology activities for distribution to CCRI(II) members will be completed in September 2025, and will be discussed at the biennial CCRI(II) meeting in November 2025 and held at the BIPM.