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Efficacy Evaluation of Alpha/Beta Radioactivity Screening in Urine Samples using Liquid Scintillation Counting

  • Ki Hoon Kim (Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences) ;
  • Jae Seok Kim (Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences) ;
  • Won Il Jang (Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences) ;
  • Seokwon Yoon (Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences)
  • Received : 2024.02.01
  • Accepted : 2024.06.17
  • Published : 2024.06.30

Abstract

Rapid screening for internal contamination by alpha- and beta-emitting radionuclides is essential in situations involving radiation workers or radiation accidents. This study focused on the use of urine samples and liquid scintillation counting to quickly and accurately assess contamination. Calibration of the alpha and beta detection areas ensured precise measurement results. The major radionuclides recommended for surveillance during accidents were also considered. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the method by examining various parameters, including the limit of detection, linearity, sensitivity, selectivity, accuracy, ruggedness, and blind test sample analysis. The liquid scintillation counting method is an effective tool for screening urinary samples to detect alpha- and beta-emitting radionuclides, particularly during radiation emergencies, despite some limitations in precision.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

This study was supported by a grant of the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS), funded by Nuclear Safety and Security Commission, Republic of Korea (No. 50091-2024).

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