Single and double grid long-range alpha detectors

Patent · Tue Mar 16 00:00:00 EST 1993

OSTI ID:6212411

MacArthur, D W; Allander, K S

Alpha particle detectors capable of detecting alpha radiation from distant sources. In one embodiment, a voltage is generated in a single electrically conductive grid while a fan draws air containing air molecules ionized by alpha particles through an air passage and across the conductive grid. The current in the conductive grid can be detected and used for measurement or alarm. Another embodiment builds on this concept and provides an additional grid so that air ions of both polarities can be detected. The detector can be used in many applications, such as for pipe or duct, tank, or soil sample monitoring.

• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-36
• Assignee: Univ. of California Patent, Trademark and Copyright Office, Alameda, CA (United States)
• Patent Number(s): US 5194737; A
• Application Number: PPN: US 7-773002
• OSTI ID: 6212411
• Resource Relation: Patent File Date: 8 Oct 1991
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

46 INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
ALPHA DETECTION
RADIATION DETECTORS
DESIGN
AIR FLOW
ALARM SYSTEMS
ELECTRIC CONDUCTORS
ELECTRIC POTENTIAL
IONIZATION
MOLECULES
USES
CHARGED PARTICLE DETECTION
DETECTION
FLUID FLOW
GAS FLOW
MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
RADIATION DETECTION
440101* - Radiation Instrumentation- General Detectors or Monitors & Radiometric Instruments