The gamma-, beta-, and x-ray-contamination in LaCl3:Ce scintillators due to the presence of the naturally occurring radioisotope La-138 is discussed. As the size of lanthanum halide crystals grows towards commercially useful sizes, and the effects of alpha-contamination due to Ac-227 has been substantially reduced, the effects of La-138 in background and low-count spectra become more problematic. The crystal’s performance in high neutron fluxes is also examined.
Revised: April 22, 2006 |
Published: December 1, 2005
Citation
Milbrath B.D., J.I. McIntyre, R.C. Runkle, and L.E. Smith. 2005.Contamination in LaCl3:Ce Scintillators Richland, WA: Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.