[ RadSafe ] Ra-226 Activity in Vintage Compass

[radmail at cox.net]

Jerry and Joe, 

I had already issued instructions for exposure rate measurements at several distances.   Also I have found the compass is alcohol filled which means it is sealed, but attenuates the exposure rate slightly along with the face. 

I was hoping that someone may know the activity. 

Roy



-----Original Message-----
From: gelsg at aol.com
To: radsafe at health.phys.iit.edu
Sent: Fri, 18 Jul 2014 4:06 PM
Subject: Re: [ RadSafe ] Ra-226 Activity in Vintage Compass


Roy, Joe:
 
I agree.  A reading at one meter should give you pretty good information with which to calculate the activity of the source.
 
I would only add that, to get the best number, the compass should be encased in a leak-tight container for 2 - 3 weeks before making the measurement.  This would allow the short-lived radon daughters, which contribute significantly to the gamma activity, to achieve equilibrium.
 
Jerry Gels
Cincinnati, OH
 
 
-----Original Message-----
From: Joseph Shonka <jjshonka at shonka.com>
To: The International Radiation Protection (Health Physics) Mailing List <radsafe at health.phys.iit.edu>
Sent: Fri, Jul 18, 2014 1:32 pm
Subject: Re: [ RadSafe ] Ra-226 Activity in Vintage Compass


Roy

Measure the exposure rate at a meter.  I have had similar instruments with
millicurie activities.

Joe Shonka



On Fri, Jul 18, 2014 at 1:20 PM, Roy Parker <radmail at cox.net> wrote:

> I am trying to move a shipment containing a World War I vintage compass:
> U.S.E.D. Creagh - Osborne Marching Compass Mark VII Model E Sperry
> Gyroscope Brooklyn, N.Y.
>
> It is radioactive, therefore obviously Ra-226.  I am trying to find the
> activity.
>
> Regards,
>
> Roy A. Parker, Ph.D.
> Radiation Physics Consultant
> 225-924-1473 Office
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