How does SEPA analyse samples?
Most samples are analysed by gamma spectrometry, which identifies a wide range of radionuclides from the characteristic gamma rays they emit. However, not all radionuclides emit radiation in the form of gamma rays, so two additional analysis techniques are also used: • those that measure alpha and beta particles • those that look for specific radionuclides If high values of alpha and beta particles are measured, specific analysis will be undertaken to determine what the particular radioactive contaminant is. If a specific radionuclide is released from a nuclear installation, then analysis will be carried out on samples near that location which specifically look for that radionuclide.
