Alpha detection in pipes using an inverting membrane scintillator
- Science and Engineering Associates, Inc., Albuquerque, NM (United States); and others
Characterization of surface alpha emitting contamination inside enclosed spaces such as piping systems presents an interesting radiological measurement challenge. Detection of these alpha particles from the exterior of the pipe is impossible since the alpha particles are completely absorbed by the pipe wall. Traditional survey techniques, using hand-held instruments, simply can not be used effectively inside pipes. Science and Engineering Associates, Inc. is currently developing an enhancement to its Pipe Explorer{trademark} system that will address this challenge. The Pipe Explorer{trademark} uses a unique sensor deployment method where an inverted tubular membrane is propagated through complex pipe runs via air pressure. The inversion process causes the membrane to fold out against the pipe wall, such that no part of the membrane drags along the pipe wall. This deployment methodology has been successfully demonstrated at several DOE sites to transport specially designed beta and gamma, scintillation detectors into pipes ranging in length up to 250 ft.
- Research Organization:
- USDOE Morgantown Energy Technology Center (METC), WV (United States)
- OSTI ID:
- 229499
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/METC-96/1021-Vol.1; CONF-9510108-Vol.1; ON: DE96000551; TRN: 96:001841-0005
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: Environmental technology development through industry partnership, Morgantown, WV (United States), 3-5 Oct 1995; Other Information: PBD: Oct 1995; Related Information: Is Part Of Proceedings of the environmental technology through industry partnership conference. Volume 1; Kothari, V.P.; PB: 312 p.
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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