Spatial Distribution Measurement of Ions Surrounding an Alpha Source using a New Micro-ionization Chamber

Abstract

Recently, a new alpha radioactivity measurement technique was proposed, which directly measures ions surrounding alpha radioactivity. In order to implement this technique, a better understanding of ion's behavior is required. We have developed a micro-ionization chamber with multi-channel charge-integrating ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). In this study, we will introduce the design of the micro-ionization chamber and show first results from ion measurements using an 241 Am alpha source. When we increase the electric field, the spatial distribution of ions exhibited two different components. Simulation calculations were also performed to account for these components.