Detector system for low energy photon emitting radionuclides in the body
This document (PHE-CRCE-012) quantifies the performance of an array of germanium detectors.
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Calibrations have been completed for measurements of lead-210 and americium-241 in the skull and americium-241 and plutonium-239 in the lungs and liver. The calibrations are suitable for a wide range of subject sizes. The limits of detection for measurements of these radionuclides in the body have also been determined.
This development of the high resolution body monitoring system will provide Public Health England with improved, state-of-the-art capabilities for assessing intakes of radionuclides in the environment and in the workplace. This body monitoring system will also be a major resource for the response to any incident involving the release of alpha emitting low energy photon emitters (such as americium-241, plutonium-238 and plutonium-239) into the environment, which could arise from malevolent use incidents, or accidents involving transport of nuclear weapons or an installation with the potential to release such radionuclides.