Sampling of radioactive material from surfacesAim of the studyThe aim of the study is to develop a sampling method for contaminated surfaces. The samples will be analysed using, e.g. non-destructive alpha spectrometry. ImplementationThe samples are traditionally taken by swiping the surfaces using a material on which the radioactive particles are attached. Tedious radiochemical processing is then usually needed to analyse the samples. In the new method the sampling is performed utilising an air jet (or other surface-stimulating beam) that detaches the particles from the surface. The particles will be collected from the air using an air sampler and a membrane filter. Non-destructive analysis methods, such as alpha, X-ray or gamma-ray spectrometry will be used for the filter. STUK develops the sampling method (MSc. thesis) and Senya Inc. designs and constructs the test equipment. Dissemination and exploitation of the resultsThe result of the project is prototype equipment that allows good-quality samples from surfaces to be taken. The results will be published in a MSc. thesis. Scientific reporting will be done in international journals. The results can be applied, e.g. in nuclear safeguards and nuclear security (210Po analysis in the field). CollaboratorsSenya Inc., Finland, and Health Canada Timetable2007–2008 Responsible scientistHarri Toivonen Page updated 17/05/2009
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