These methods cover general procedures for the calibration of radiation detectors and the analysis of radionuclides. For each individual radionuclide, one or more of these methods may apply. These methods are concerned only with specific radionuclide measurements. The chemical and physical properties of the radionuclides are beyond the scope of this standard. Among the measurement standards discussed are: the calibration and usage of germanium detectors, scintillation detector systems, scintillation detectors for simple and complex spectra, and counting methods such as beta particle counting, aluminum absorption curve, alpha particle counting, and liquid scintillation counting. For each of the methods, the scope, apparatus used, summary of methods, preparation of apparatus, calibration procedure, measurement of radionuclide, performance testing, sources of uncertainty, precautions and tests, and calculations are detailed.

1.1 This guide covers general procedures for the calibration of radiation detectors and measurement for radiation metrology for reactor dosimetry. For any particular radionuclide, one or more of these methods may apply.

1.2 These techniques are concerned only with specific radionuclide measurements. The chemical and physical properties of the radionuclides are not within the scope of this standard.

1.3 E3376, Standard Practice for Calibration and Usage of Germanium Detectors in Radiation Metrology for Reactor Dosimetry, was previously in Guide E181 and is now found in Volume 12.02 of the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. The discussion herein is not a sufficient substitute for the full standard. This guide is specifically NOT to be used as a direct reference to Practice E3376. Only the standard listed provides sufficient information to serve as a reference.

1.4 Additional information on the setup, calibration, and quality control for radiometric detectors and measurements is given in Guide C1402 and Practice D7282.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.