Activity standardization of 60Co and 106Ru/106Rh by means of the TDCR method and the importance of the beta spectrum.

Atomic and nuclear data represent an important input for the accuracy of primary activity measurements based on liquid scintillation. In particular, the reliability of β-spectrum computation has been investigated for several years through experimental and theoretical studies providing solid evidence for the need to consider the atomic effects. In the present study, the activity standardization of two β-emitting radionuclides (60Co, 106Ru/106Rh) was carried out by means of the 4πβ−γ coincidence and Triple-to-Double Coincidence Ratio (TDCR) methods. The comparison between the activity concentrations given by both primary techniques presents new evidence that a better agreement is obtained when the exchange and screening effects are included in the β-spectra implemented in the model of light emission for TDCR measurements. A new development of a stochastic model based on Geant4 simulations for TDCR calculations is also presented. • Primary activity measurements of 60Co and 106Ru/106Rh are presented. • Activity assessment with the TDCR method depends on β-spectra computation. • For both radionuclides, the TDCR and 4πβ−γ coincidence results are compared. • Good agreement is obtained when the atomic effects are considered in the β-spectra calculation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]