Some practical observations on liquid scintillation counting

Abstract

General information is presented relating to savings available to large institutions through standard purchasing purchases which are sometimes ignored (buyer's agreements and refunds, quantity discounts for local and statewide institutions). Cost data for some common liquid scintillation mixtures, in addition to characteristics and advantages and disadvantages of particular mixtures are given. Amount of counting mixture vs. counting efficiency is discussed, as well as chemiluminescence associated with certain products and brands. Cost figures are detailed for large and small plastic and glass vials and for acceptable lower cost pharmaceutical vials. Inter-comparisons for various brands of vials are shown for two common mixtures or “cocktails” in regard to background, swelling and figure of merit. Minor modifications for counters which refuse minivials in commercial adaptors are covered, and a less expensive adaptor is suggested. Waste-disposal savings which are possible with minivials are mentioned. Washing and re-using vials may be a false economy, and some of the criteria useful in deciding where to re-use vials are noted. Safety precautions and handling techniques for solvents are considered.