Event counting alpha detector
An electrostatic detector is disclosed for atmospheric radon or other weak sources of alpha radiation. In one embodiment, nested enclosures are insulated from one another, open at the top, and have a high voltage pin inside and insulated from the inside enclosure. An electric field is produced between the pin and the inside enclosure. Air ions produced by collision with alpha particles inside the decay volume defined by the inside enclosure are attracted to the pin and the inner enclosure. With low alpha concentrations, individual alpha events can be measured to indicate the presence of radon or other alpha radiation. In another embodiment, an electrical field is produced between parallel plates which are insulated from a single decay cavity enclosure. 6 figs.
- Research Organization:
- University of California
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- Assignee:
- Univ. of California, Oakland, CA (United States)
- Patent Number(s):
- US 5,550,381/A/
- Application Number:
- PAN: 8-333,020
- OSTI ID:
- 372580
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Apparatus for detecting alpha radiation in difficult access areas
Apparatus for detecting alpha radiation in difficult access areas