Abstract: The analytical potential of low level, high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry for naturally occurring radionuclides at environmental levels is described, with particular emphasis on detector background levels and sensitivity. Comparisons are drawn between the performance of a specially designed low background detector system, and that of standard “off the shelf” devices. Sample characteristics, calibration procedures and checks, are described, and empirical minimum detection limits of between 0.4 Bq·kg−1 (226Ra,228Th) and 10 Bq·kg−1 (...
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Topics: 
Environmental chemistry