Analysis of the gamma spectra of the uranium, actinium, and thorium decay series

Abstract

3: r.w,m FOREWORDThis report is a summary of a program to develop an integrated gamma-ray spectroscopy system for use in Measurement of concentrations of radionuclides in solid samples collected near active and inactive uranium mining, milling, and fuel-processing facilities. Use of high-resolution gamma detectors allows specific quantification of the level of ground contamination. A gamma spectra of a sample of uranium mill tailings may show more than 150 individual peaks between a 40-to 1500-keV energy band. This necessitated a meticulous calibration of the system for gamma energy, efficiency, and precise knowledge of intrinsic radionuclide intensities.

Analyses of uranium and actinium gamma spectra: An application to measurements of environmental contamination

“…In comparison, these lines are reported at 295.22 keV and 351.99 keM with the quantum yields 1.94 * 1O-1 and 3.63 x 10-1 , respectively [7]. Similarly, the major lines for 21<4 Bi are at 609.27 keV and 1120.Pi keV with the quantum yields, respectively, at 4.33 * 10-1 and 1.46 x 10- 1 . The reported values [7] are 609.37 keV (4.28 x IO-1 ) and 1120.4 keV (1.50 x 10-1 )-The major line for determination of 238 U is 1001.04 keV (9.20 x 10-3 ) from 234 mp a .…”

“…Application of the gamma spectroscopy system, which utilizes the Ge The major lines from 211+ Pb are 295.16 keV and 351.89 keV with the quantum yields, respectively, 1.15 x 10-1 and 3.89 x 10- 1 . In comparison, these lines are reported at 295.22 keV and 351.99 keM with the quantum yields 1.94 * 1O-1 and 3.63 x 10-1 , respectively [7].…”