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Gamma background measurements in the Gran Sasso National Laboratory
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 inside the Gran Sasso National Laboratory, Italy. Results show low background radiation, indicating suitability for sensitive experiments.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Physics
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Underground laboratories require precise characterization of natural background radiation.
- The Gran Sasso National Laboratory is a major facility for deep underground physics experiments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the in situ gamma radiation levels within the Gran Sasso National Laboratory.
- To assess the contribution of surrounding geological formations to the background radiation.
Main Methods:
- In situ gamma-ray spectrometry was performed at eight distinct locations within the laboratory.
- Gamma radiation count rates were measured across an energy range of 7-2,734 keV.
- Activity concentrations of uranium and thorium in surrounding sedimentary rocks were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Gamma radiation count rates ranged from 8 to 60 γ s⁻¹, with an average of 49 γ s⁻¹ without a collimator.
- The average gamma flux within the laboratory was determined to be 0.25 γ cm⁻² s⁻¹.
- Surrounding sedimentary rocks exhibited low uranium (1.7 Bq kg⁻¹) and thorium (1.4 Bq kg⁻¹) activity concentrations.
Conclusions:
- The Gran Sasso National Laboratory possesses a low natural gamma radiation background.
- The surrounding geological environment contributes minimally to the overall radiation levels.
- These findings confirm the suitability of the laboratory for low-background physics research.