Laboratory Investigations of the Gamma-Ray Spectral Region for Remote Determination of Soil Trafficability Conditions,
Abstract
Gamma radiation from soil samples was measured, and the results were analyzed to evaluate the use of gamma rays in remotely determining soil parameters useful in estimating trafficability. Gamma-ray spectra were obtained from representatives samples of sand, silt, and clay placed in a low-background inclosure. Photopeak counting rates and photopeak ratios of thorium, uranium, and potassium were considered in the analysis. Results indicated that photopeak counts of the radioisotopes of primary interest were proportional to moisture content of the soil samples, but ratios of the photopeaks were nearly independent of moisture content, although different for each soil tested. Gamma-ray measurements were also made on soil samples obtained from all 50 states in an attempt to correlate the ratios of their photopeaks of thorium, uranium, and potassium with soil type and other morphological, genetic and physical-chemical characteristics of the soils.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0747097
Entities
People
- A. N. Williamson