Publication Abstract

An investigation into some factors that might affect the collection efficiency of the dry cloth, as used in the MAFF dry cloth radioactivity monitoring programme

An investigation into some factors that might affect the collection efficiency of the dry cloth, as used in the MAFF dry cloth radioactivity monitoring programme

L. Duckett

Five simple experiments were set up in the grounds of the MAFF Fisheries Laboratory, Lowestoft to examine the effects of shielding, rain and the length ofthe exposure period on the collection efficiency ofthe type of dry cloth used in MAFF's airbourne radioactivity monitoring programme. The cloths were analysed for total gamma, alpha and beta activity and the results compared with those for a dry control cloth which is permanently sited at Lowestoft as part of the monitoring programme. The levels of activity measured on the cloths were very low, showing little enhancement above background levels.

There was also a large variation in the results for any given treatment, up to a factor of 4 between collection dates. A small effect on collection efficiency was noted for the simulation of rain and shielding from the side, however the variability of the data may account for this.

L. Duckett *

Radiological Protection