Advances in the Design of Vacuum Gauges using Radioactive Materials

Abstract

Tritium, the radioactive isotope of hydrogen, is advantageously used in radiological vacuum gauges. The tritium gas is absorbed in a thin layer of titanium, forming a stable compound at room temperature. Because of the complete absence of penetrating radiation, high intensity sources may be used to permit convenient measurement of pressures down to 10-5 mm Hg, with essentially no hazard to personnel.