A proportional-scintillation counter beta spectrometer

Using a proportional counter for coincidence gating of events in a plastic scintillator provides selective registration of beta interactions in the scintillator. The technique has been used to construct a field instrument that can selectively collect beta spectra (coincidence gating) or gamma spectra (anticoincidence gating). The technique provides a means of studying the energy structure of the radiation fields to correct dosimeter response and to aid in radiological engineering studies. Dose rates can be calculated from the spectra and compared with results obtained with conventional instruments. The system has proved to be an effective tool for studying beta spectra in the field