Technical Evaluation of the Prototype ORNL Alpha Radiation Detector/Probe with the AN/PDR-77 Radiac Set
Abstract
A new Alpha particle detector, designed and fabricated by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) was procured and technically evaluated by the U.S. Army. Two of the three detectors procured were tested under guidelines obtained from U.S. Army requirements for an Alpha detector probe. The probes represent the state-of-the-art in Alpha particle detector design and fabrication affording ruggedness in design, accuracy at low count rates(+ or - 10%) below 30 CPM, excellent operating temperature (-30 to 60 deg C), and insensitivity to gamma rays (CS-137) up to 2 R/hr. Its unique feature centers on the solid state construction of the Alpha detector which is composed of a transparent epoxy having embedded silver actuated zinc sulfide as the scintillator. A flat light pipe coupled to a photomultiplier tube provides the light sensing design. Test results indicate a drop in response as one approaches the edge of the detector face due to the geometry of a flat light pipe design, suggesting a redesign from a flat geometry to one having a cone shape.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA252222
Entities
People
- Ira A. Kaplowitz
- Michael J. Basso
Organizations
- United States Army Communications-Electronics Command