| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9871631 | Applied Radiation and Isotopes | 2005 | 10 Pages |
Abstract
In the age determination of sediments according to the luminescence method, it is important to know whether there was secular equilibrium in the Th and U decay series during accumulation of the environmental radiation dose in geological times. This can be investigated via gamma-ray spectrometry, whereby-in the 238U series-214Pb and 214Bi are considered as the indicators for 226Ra-mobility, and 210Pb as the indicator for 226Rn-emanation. In the present work, the direct measurement of 226Ra-which can give extra information on the interpretation of the radioactive equilibrium-is investigated as to its precision and accuracy. Since there is a serious spectral interference on its 186.2Â keV gamma-line (by 235U at 185.7Â keV), various correction procedures were outlined and their performance was checked via the analysis of (certified) reference materials, leading to the recommendation of a “method of choice”.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Physics and Astronomy
Radiation
Authors
F. De Corte, H. Umans, D. Vandenberghe, A. De Wispelaere, P. Van den haute,