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Absolute Method for Measuring Environmental Radioactive Materials Using Imaging Plates.
Mori Yutaro, Isobe Tomonori, Takei Hideyuki1
1Quantum Life and Medical Science Directorate, National Institute for Quantum Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage-ku, Chiba 263-8555, Japan.
Health Physics
|July 1, 2024
Summary
This study presents a new method to convert relative imaging plate (IP) measurements of radioactive surface contamination into absolute values (Bq cm -2). This advancement enables accurate radiation safety management following environmental contamination events.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Nuclear Chemistry
- Radiation Detection
Background:
- Fukushima nuclear accident caused widespread radioactive surface contamination.
- Previous imaging plate (IP) measurements provided relative contamination values (LAU).
- Absolute quantification (Bq cm -2) is crucial for effective dose control and safety management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a reliable method for converting IP-based surface contamination measurements into absolute values.
- To enable accurate assessment of radioactive contamination for radiation safety protocols.
Main Methods:
- Developed a working reference material (WRM) using Fukushima-contaminated soil.
- Calculated the conversion coefficient using simultaneous measurements from IP and high-purity germanium detectors.
- Applied the conversion factor to re-evaluate surface contamination at a facility.
Main Results:
- A conversion factor of 0.0994 was determined.
- IP measurements (324.1 LAU) were accurately converted to absolute values (32.22 ± 2.27 Bq cm -2) using the WRM.
- Re-evaluated contamination at Tsukuba City facility (29,972 Bq m -2) aligned with expected fallout.
Conclusions:
- Standardized IP measurement conditions allow for quantification of surface contamination density with accuracy comparable to conventional methods.
- The developed conversion method significantly enhances radiation safety management efficiency.
- This technique is vital for assessing and controlling environmental radioactivity post-nuclear incidents.
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