Determining radioactive aerosol concentrations using a surface radioactive contamination measurement device

Area of Science:

• Radiological physics
• Environmental science
• Aerosol science

Background:

• Accurate measurement of radioactive aerosol activity is essential for experiments using radon-aerosol chambers (RAC).
• Existing surface contamination probes require calibration for specific experimental geometries.
• The COLIBRI TTC survey metre with an SABG-15+ probe was acquired for aerosol activity measurements in RAC experiments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the activity of radioactive aerosols applied in a radon-aerosol chamber (RAC).
• To adapt and verify the response of a COLIBRI TTC survey metre with an SABG-15+ probe for measuring deposited aerosol activity in a specific experimental geometry.

Main Methods:

• Monte Carlo simulation using MCNPX software to model the probe's response in the experimental geometry.
• Experimental verification of the developed Monte Carlo model.
• Utilizing a COLIBRI TTC survey metre with an SABG-15+ probe for surface contamination measurements.

Main Results:

• A validated Monte Carlo model accurately simulates the probe's response for measuring aerosol activity on filters within the RAC.
• The study provides a method for calibrating the probe in a non-standard geometry relevant to RAC experiments.
• Experimental data confirmed the predictions of the Monte Carlo simulation.

Conclusions:

• The Monte Carlo simulation combined with experimental verification provides a reliable method for assessing radioactive aerosol activity in RAC experiments.
• This approach ensures accurate quantification of aerosol deposition on filters, crucial for experimental integrity.
• The validated model enhances the utility of the COLIBRI TTC survey metre for specialized radiological applications.