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Gamma background measurements in the Laboratoire Souterrain de Modane
Dariusz Malczewski1, Jan Kisiel2, Jerzy Dorda2
1Faculty of Earth Sciences, University of Silesia, Bedzinska 60, 41-200 Sosnowiec, Poland.
Journal of Radioanalytical and Nuclear Chemistry
|July 31, 2015
Summary
Gamma radiation levels were measured in the Modane Underground Laboratory, with count rates ranging from 15 to 108 γs⁻¹. Surrounding rocks show low uranium and thorium concentrations, indicating a stable environment for sensitive experiments.
Area of Science:
- Geophysics and Radiation Physics
Background:
- Underground laboratories provide shielded environments crucial for sensitive scientific experiments.
- Characterizing the background radiation is essential for optimizing experimental conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify in situ gamma radiation levels at the Modane Underground Laboratory.
- To determine the activity concentrations of natural radionuclides (uranium and thorium) in the surrounding rock formations.
Main Methods:
- In situ gamma-ray spectrometry was employed at six distinct locations within the laboratory.
- Gamma radiation count rates were measured across an energy spectrum of 7-2734 keV.
- Activity concentrations of uranium and thorium were analyzed in rock samples.
Main Results:
- Measured gamma radiation count rates varied between 15 and 108 γs⁻¹, with an average of 79 γs⁻¹ without a collimator.
- The surrounding metamorphic rocks exhibited low activity concentrations: 12 Bq kg⁻¹ for uranium and 10 Bq kg⁻¹ for thorium.
Conclusions:
- The Modane Underground Laboratory exhibits a low and well-characterized natural gamma radiation background.
- The low radionuclide content in the surrounding geology contributes to the favorable experimental conditions for low-background physics research.