RADIOMETRIC ANALYSIS SYSTEM FOR SOLID SUPPORT SAMPLES

摘要

For simultaneously measuring the radioactivity of multiple samples arranged in a predetermined array of x rows and y columns, a fixed array of radiation counters arranged in the same array of x rows and y columns so that one of the counters is aligned with each of the multiple samples. Each of the counters has a pair of spaced electrodes; an electrical voltage source connected to the electrodes of all the counters for applying the same voltage across the electrodes of each of the radiation counters in the array; and sensing means connected to the electrodes of each of the radiation counters for independently detecting pulses of electrical current produced by ionization of the gas between the respective pairs of electrodes of each of the radiation counters. For measuring low-energy radiation, the radiation counters are windowless, a flow of ionizable gas is supplied to the counters, and the same flow rate of the ionizable gas is maintained through each of the radiation counters in the array. Preferably the radiation counters are formed in a metal plate that provides shielding to minimize "cross talk" between adjacent samples.