Re: BREMSSTRAHLUNG

[jgbarnes@ix.netcom.com (JAMES BARNES)]

>
>1. What should the bremsstrahlung spectrum look like?

Would expect it to be a continuous, downward sloping curve.  See Knoll, Figure 
10-5, p. 299.

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

Yes.  See Cember, p. 106.

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

(See above) 

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

I have no data on this.  As bremsstrahlung produces no peak energy in the 
spectrum, I wouldn't imagine it would be that charateristic a phenomena that it 
would be useful except under very controlled conditions (something difficult to 
obtain when you're trying to find a lost source).  Bremsstrahlung generally is an 
unwanted interference in gamma spectroscopy.
>
>
Jim Barnes, CHP
RSO
Rocketdyne Division; Rockwell Aerospace