THE COUNTING OF NATURALLY OCCURRING RADIOCARBON IN THE FORM OF BENZENE IN A LIQUID SCINTILLATION COUNTER

Journal Article · Fri Feb 01 04:00:00 EST 1963 · Intern. J. Appl. Radiation Isotopes

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0020-708X(63)90097-8· OSTI ID:4716638

Leger, C; Tamers, M S

A counting system is described for C/sup 14/ dating with a benzene scintillator solution. The single photomultiplier counter used is relatively simple and reliable. Different sizes and forms of the counting solution containers were investigated. A 6-ml cell with a background of 4.0 counts/min and a 45% detection efficiency is recommended for routine C/sup 14/ dating. A 60- ml cell with a background of 14.6 counts/min and a 45% detection efficiency is capable of dating samples as old as 57,500 years (4.0 statistics, 48 hr counting). The calibration and operation of the counter are discussed. On comparison with standard gas counter methods, it is suggested that routine C/sup 14/ dating by the benzene method is preferable in those cases where the laboratory personnel are more skilled in chemical manipulations than electronic technique. (auth)

• Research Organization: CEN, Saclay, France
• NSA Number: NSA-17-023280
• OSTI ID: 4716638
• Journal Information: Intern. J. Appl. Radiation Isotopes, Journal Name: Intern. J. Appl. Radiation Isotopes Vol. Vol: 14
• Country of Publication: Country unknown/Code not available
• Language: English

Related Subjects

AGE ESTIMATION
BENZENE
CARBON 14
CHEMISTRY
EFFICIENCY
PHOSPHORS
PHOTOMULTIPLIERS
SCINTILLATION COUNTERS
SOLUTIONS
STANDARDS