Performance parameters of a whole body counter

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2010

Authors

Bento, J (Author) Other; Teles, P (Author) Other; Silva, L (Author) Other; Nogueira, P (Author) Other; Neves, M (Author) Other; Vaz, P (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Radiation Measurements

Vol. 45

Pages: 190-195

ISSN: 1350-4487

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 5 Citations

Scopus - 6 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-003-9K5

DOI: 10.1016/j.radmeas.2010.01.002

Abstract (EN): Techniques for the assessment of internally incorporated radionuclides are essential for monitoring potentially exposed workers to radiation as well as for the preparedness of response in the case of Radiological Emergencies. The Whole Body Counter at Instituto Tecnologico e Nuclear (ITN), Portugal, provides a direct way of measuring the activity of internally incorporated radionuclides in possibly contaminated persons. This equipment is calibrated in energy and efficiency, with a calibration source, and is able to detect and quantify several radionuclides with gamma emissions between 60 and 1900 keV. Also, the Minimum Detectable Activity values for several nuclides of interest were determined, since these values are an indication of the sensitivity of the detection system. Finally, in order to assure reliable measurements, a quality assurance routine has been implemented, consisting of routinely monitoring several parameters of chosen radionuclides with gamma emission energies lying in the energy range of interest, and also for the background. The equipment is now fully operational and a set of routine measurements for the monitoring of exposed personnel, working in different areas of activity, is currently being prepared.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6