BREMSSTRAHLUNG

[jjames <jjames@nando.net>]

We deal with lost souces containing mCi to Ci amounts of beta emitters 
(beta gauges).  Since these sources usually have no identification 
markings, we do not know the isotope involved.  We have a portable 
scintillation detector with a multichannel analyzer for identification of 
gamma sources.  The bremsstrahlung from the beta gauges is usually 
sufficient to locate the devices with a uR meter.  My questions are:

1. What should the bremsstrahlung spectrum look like?

2. Is there any relationship between the beta energy (E-max,average) and 
the spectrum on the scintillation detector?

3. Is there a reference that might give information on this subject?

4. Does anyone use this method to identify beta isotopes?

I have found the reason why my message did not get through before, I 
think.  Thanks Melissa.  You may post information on radsafe or e-mail 
direct to me at:  jjames@nando.net or call 919-571-4141