Direct measurement of alpha emitters in liquids using passivated ion implanted planar silicon (PIPS) diode detectors

The present study evaluated the feasibility of direct measurement of alpha emitting radionuclides in liquids using passivated ion implanted planar silicon (PIPS) diode detectors. The performance characteristics and durability of PIPS diode detectors enabled direct detection of alpha particles from liquid samples by placing the diode detector in close proximity to the liquid sample. Factors affecting the sensitivity and accuracy of direct detection of alpha-emitters in solution and interferences of beta/gamma emitters have been examined. Direct assay of liquid samples using PIPS diode detectors can enable rapid and straightforward detection methodologies suitable for process control applications.