A SOLID STATE ROCKET RADIATION DETECTION SYSTEM
Abstract
A pocket-size radiac instrument has been designed to operate with silicon p-i-n junction detectors. These detectors are sensitive to both x or gamma radiation and also to charged particles including alpha particles. The electronic system can read out counting rates in the range of zero to 100,000 counts/min in four linear decades. A large, flat detector is mounted into the back surface of the case. A plug-in probe using a cylindrical detector is furnished for possible insertion into small volumes in the body or in open wounds. Both detectors are protected by a silicon monoxide coating. Discrimination between pulses due to alpha or other heavily ionizing particles and those due to photons or betas is provided. The unit, therefore, combines two separate sensitive volumes: (1) a large area detector (approximately 6 sq. cm. which can detect very low levels or radioactivity. This detector will allow a monitor to scan the surface and clothing of persons suspected of radioactive contamination. (2) A probe, which is 3 mm in diameter at the tip and 3 feet in length, which plugs into a receptacle on the top of the case, and is designed so that it can be sterilized and therefore can be inserted directly into an open wound. Absolute sensitivity over that reported can be increased if discrimination between heavily ionized particles and photon radiation is eliminated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 30, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0295747
Entities
People
- Frederick W. Cleary
- Norman A. Baily
Organizations
- HRL Laboratories