Beta Activity Of Samples Research Articles

A multiple window deconvolution technique for measuring low-energy beta activity in samples contaminated with high-energy beta impurities using liquid scintillation spectrometry

An optimised multiple window counting technique, using liquid scintillation counting combined with internal standardisation and spectrum unfolding has been developed for the assessment of low-level, low-energy beta activity in multilabeled samples containing high-energy beta impurities. Distinct spectral contributions are reconstructed for every individual radionuclide and impurity using software deconvolution techniques. The most important advantages of this method are that it does not require setting up quench correction curves and that the exact knowledge of reference activity is not required, thus eliminating two important sources of uncertainty in the final results. The technique has been successfully used on mixtures of 3H, 14C, 63Ni, 99Tc and 60Co over a wide range of quenching and activity ratios.

Radioactivity Monitoring of the Water Cycle following the Chernobyl Accident

SYNOPSISDetails are given of the radioactivity monitoring programme following the Chernobyl accident. Measurements of gross beta activity in samples of rainwater, raw water, treated water, waste products from water treatment plants, and sewage sludges, are tabulated.On a limited sampling regime fallout in the Longdendale water catchment, three months after the accident, was investigated and shown to be mainly absorbed onto grass and soil. Water treatment processes were found to be effective in removing radioactive fallout from raw water, and concentrating it into the waste treatment products. The disposal of these waste products is discussed.

Radioactivity of fish in the Hungarian reach of the River Danube

In connection with the national nuclear power programme a series of measurements was initiated to detect radionuclides in fish of the Danube river. Since spring 1978 a number of species of fish have been investigated at two sampling points near the nuclear station region. The beta activity of samples was counted with anticoincidence shielded low background Tesla NZ-602 type apparatus. The radioactivity of samples was measured after simple physical or radiochemical preparation.