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Standardization of alpha-particle sources

Conference · · Am. Soc. Test. Mater., Spec. Tech. Publ.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6521307
The calibration of alpha-particle sources at the National Bureau of Standards began about 1950 with the measurement of 2..pi.. alpha-particle-emission rates using a hemispherical gas-flow proportional counter. Today activities are also determined using defined-geometry counters with scintillation detectors and 4..pi cap alpha..-..gamma.. coincidence counters. As the measurement techniques have evolved, the overall uncertainty associated with the determination of the activity of an alpha-particle source has decreased by about an order of magnitude, from several percent to several tenths of one percent. The factors contributing to the overall uncertainty fall into two general categories: those associated with the detection system and those associated with the source. These factors are discussed, along with suggestions for minimizng the overall uncertainty.
Research Organization:
National Bureau of Standards, Washington, DC
OSTI ID:
6521307
Report Number(s):
CONF-780719-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Am. Soc. Test. Mater., Spec. Tech. Publ.; (United States) Journal Volume: 698
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English