RADIOTRACER TECHNIQUE FOR PIPELINE LEAK DETECTION IN THE NATIONAL IRANIAN OIL COMPANY

H. Rahimi1, M. A. Naimpour1, A. Abedinzadeh1, A. Amini2, J. Kraœ2

1 Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, Nuclear Research Center, P.O. Box 11365-8486, Teheran, Iran,
2 Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology, 16 Dorodna Str., 03-195 Warsaw, Poland

Physical and chemical principles of application of isotope tracers to control of tightness and localization of leaks in underground pipelines have been presented. The method shows many advantages. It is sensitive and easy to apply. The test and preliminary works are not time-consuming. In addition, the isotopic test can be carried out without stopping the line or changing the product composition.