Integration of beta counting system with ORION-DSP coupled to NaI(Tl) detector—a comparative study with an HPGe detector.

The integration of the ORION digital signal processing-based MCA system coupled with a 3″ × 3″ NaI(Tl) detector assembly with a GM detector for counting beta (β) has eliminated the need for a standalone β-γ method in which U₃O₈ is determined by gross β and gross γ counting. Uraniferous and mixed U-Th samples were taken up for study and compared with the results obtained from Canberra p-type coaxial high resolution gamma ray spectrometry detector. In uraniferous samples, U₃O₈ values obtained are within ±10%, whereas in the case of mixed U-Th samples, U₃O₈ values are within ±15%. Regression graphs drawn between the outcomes from the two analytical systems indicate R² > 0.95 for Ra(eU₃O₈) and ThO₂. In uraniferous samples, the R² value for U₃O₈ was found to be > 0.99, but in mixed U-Th samples, it is 0.92. The closeness of agreement between the results obtained from two methods at various concentrations over the analytical range shows that the integrated system is suitable for the quantitative determination of eU₃O₈, U₃O₈, Ra(eU₃O₈), ThO₂ and K in geological rock samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]