Primary and secondary measurements of 222Rn

Appl Radiat Isot. 2004 Feb-Apr;60(2-4):387-90. doi: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2003.11.046.

Abstract

In the past few years, a primary measurement system has been established at the PTB allowing absolute measurements of 222Rn. The activity can be determined by counting the emitted alpha particles in a defined solid angle after condensing the radon at a cold point under vacuum conditions. This primary measurement system is connected to a solid 226Ra source, where 222Rn can be produced up to an activity of about 2MBq. After the measurement, radon can be completely transferred into a glass bulb or a stainless steel cylinder for use as a transfer standard. The results of the measurements, the uncertainties and the realization of the primary measurement system are described. For quality assurance and fast determination of radon activity, a secondary measurement system with an NaI(Tl) detector is also used. Together, both systems provide a reliable tool for the production of gaseous 222Rn activity standards with relative uncertainties of less than 1%.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Alpha Particles*
  • Gases / analysis*
  • Gases / standards*
  • Half-Life
  • Quality Control
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Radiometry / methods*
  • Radiometry / standards*
  • Radon / analysis*
  • Radon / standards*
  • Radon Daughters / analysis
  • Radon Daughters / standards
  • Reference Standards
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity

Substances

  • Gases
  • Radon Daughters
  • Radon