Activity measurement of mixed complex radionuclide like ¹⁵²Eu with different methods

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Metrology
• Radioactivity Measurement

Background:

• Accurate standardization of radionuclides like Europium-152 (Eu-152) is crucial for various applications.
• Independent verification of measurement techniques enhances confidence in radioactivity standards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To standardize the activity concentration of Eu-152 using multiple primary methods.
• To compare the results with the key comparison reference value (KCRV) for Eu-152.

Main Methods:

• Utilized three independent 4π β-γ coincidence counting systems.
• Employed proportional counters, plastic scintillators, and liquid scintillators as beta detectors.
• Applied the CIEMAT/NIST method for standardization.

Main Results:

• The average activity concentration from primary methods was determined.
• Comparison with the 4π γ ionization chamber (GIC), calibrated against KCRV, showed a deviation of ±0.16%.
• This deviation is well within the standard uncertainties, indicating good agreement.

Conclusions:

• The independent standardization of Eu-152 using diverse primary methods confirms its accuracy.
• The results validate the reliability of the employed coincidence counting systems and the CIEMAT/NIST method.
• High agreement with the KCRV underscores the quality of the radioactivity measurements.