#gamma spectroscopy

[man-and-atom]

Here are two excellent things in one video.

First is a glimpse of components of the NERVA nuclear rocketry program of the 1960s which are rarely seen. Nuclear-thermal rockets may yet prove crucial to the exploration of the solar system.

The second is the use of gamma-ray spectroscopy to “fingerprint” and conclusively identify even traces of radioactive substances. This technique is enormously useful, especially because neutrons from nuclear reactors can be used to “activate” or render radioactive many substances. Thus precise quantitative information can quickly be obtained about the elemental and isotopic composition of all manner of objects, ranging from ancient minerals to samples of plant or animal tissue.

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Detailed comparison of just the 1 hr trinitite spectrum versus a 1hr background measurement. Looks pretty good! Can definitely tell that we are dealing with more than just your average hot rock here.

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Collection of gamma spectra taken with my Na(Tl) scintillator of things I have around the house with times adjusted to have roughly the same amount of counts for each sample. Spectra in order on the key are: background 1hr, trinitite 1hr, autunite 2.5mins, petrified wood 7.5mins, Ra226(clock hand) 15mins, and pitchblende 2.5mins. January 29, 2020

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Finally soledered up a new voltage divider for the photomultiplier tube in my Na(Tl) scintillation detector. Even managed to fit the BNC connector in the original housing! January 27, 2020

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Famous last words but...it seems to be working! Gamma spectroscopy is now within my grasp! After a week of intense frustration it seems like I have exorcised the demons in my circuitry. The photomultiplier tube is happily amplifying the photons produced by the NaI(Tl) scintillation crystal, the voltage divider is happily dividing the voltage and producing pulses from the capacitors, and the sound card driver is playing nicely. This is the spectra produced by about a 10 minute test with an Ra-226 source that I picked up. Some definite peaks there right where they should be! I cant believe it!!! Next project is a larger and more sensitive scintillator for use when out hiking.

[lisaleaks]

Radioactive Toothpaste (1940-1945)

Tales from the Atomic Age

In the early 1940s, the U.S. was at war and extraordinary efforts were underway to build an atomic bomb. The government even went so far as to confiscate the uranium oxides used by ceramics manufacturers to produce red/orange glazes. More than a few collectors must have been upset at the disruption in their supply of red dinnerware. Still, sacrifices were required.…

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[gil-estel]

Fun times in lab today.