Importance

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Abstract

A sensitive alpha radiation detector, not responsive to beta or gamma radiation, is provided in an air contamination system to respond to small levels of radon such as 4 picocuries per liter of air. Thus a substantially instantaneous detector for radon in dwellings is provided. The detector comprises a vessel having a housing outer electrode with an air passage screen leading into a first interior compartment confronting a detector electrode. Another interior compartment has therein a calibrated alpha source for ionizing that compartment which is separated from the first compartment by the detector electrode. Thus a small amount of alpha radiation is detectable when presented near the air passage screen. For providing direct radon readings consistent with the Environmental Protection Agency standard of 4 picocuries per liter of air, accumulation of dust and radon daughters from a measured amount of air passed through a filter for a minute or so are processed. Direct reading of alpha radiation is achieved substantially instantaneously.

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First Claim