Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 31, 2026

A Novel Technique for Raman Analysis of Highly Radioactive Samples Using Any Standard Micro-Raman Spectrometer
Published on: April 12, 2017
Rapid alpha spectrometry from liquids doped with ²⁰⁹Po and ²⁴¹Am using simplified sample processing
R Pöllänen1, R Simola1, P Vesterbacka1
1STUK - Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, P.O. Box 14, FI-00881 Helsinki, Finland.
Abstract:
Rapid detection of alpha-particle emitting radionuclides from liquids doped with (209)Po and (241)Am was investigated. These nuclides may mimic or be among those that could be used as threat agents in malevolent actions such as deliberate poisoning of refreshments. The liquids investigated here by using a semiconductor alpha detector in vacuum were coffee, beer and apple juice. Methods for the sample processing were rapid evaporation of the liquids and filtration. Both methods produced samples, which gave alpha spectra that could be readily analyzed by an unfolding program. The doped radionuclides were easily identified from the spectra, but the samples were too thick for reliable activity determination. Determination of the activity ratios is possible if the peak shapes are equal. However, radionuclides may behave differently during the sample preparation, which must be accounted for in the activity ratio determination.
Related Concept Videos
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Lab
Solutions containing organic solvents, such as low-molecular-mass alcohols, esters, or ketones, enhance absorbances by increasing...
Atomic Emission Spectroscopy: Lab
Atomic Spectroscopy: Absorption, Emission, and Fluorescence
Atomic Emission Spectroscopy: Instrumentation
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Atomization Methods
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy: Instrumentation
The atomizer used in AAS can be either a flame atomizer or an...

