Evaluating geometrical parameters in defined solid-angle alpha spectrometry for absolute Radon-222 activity measurement
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Defined Solid Angle (DSA) alpha spectrometry is a primary method for absolute activity determination of Radon-222, in which radon is cryogenically depositing onto a polished cold disk under vacuum and counted in a fixed source–detector geometry. In this approach, the detection efficiency is determined exclusively by the normalized solid angle, expressed as the Geometry Factor $$G$$ G . The accuracy of activity determination therefore depends directly on the precise evaluation of $$G$$ G and its associated uncertainty. This work presents a comprehensive numerical investigation of the sensitivity and uncertainty of $$G$$ G with respect to the governing geometrical parameters: source–diaphragm distance $$z$$ z , diaphragm radius $$a$$ a , source radius $$b$$ b , and eccentricity $$e$$ e . Calculations were performed using both the Knoll (Radiation detection and measurement, 4th ed. Wiley, New York, S120, 2010) and Curtis (Nucleus 13:38, 1955. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0168-9002(96)80029-5 ) analytical extensions, enabling systematic parameter variation and direct model comparison. The results show excellent agreement between the two models for concentric configurations ( $$e$$ e = 0 mm). The Geometry Factor is found to be most sensitive to variations in $$z$$ z and $$a$$ a ; however, uncertainty propagation analysis demonstrates that the dominant contribution to the combined uncertainty arises from $$z$$ z , accounting for approximately 88% – 97% of the total variance under typical National Metrology Institute (NMI) conditions. In contrast, the influence of $$b$$ b is significantly smaller, and eccentricities up to 1 mm produce only minor variations in $$G$$ G . These findings quantitatively identify the source–diaphragm distance as the critical parameter limiting uncertainty reduction in DSA-based primary standardization of Radon-222. The study provides a clear metrological framework for optimizing geometry control and supports the harmonization of high-accuracy activity measurements across NMIs, enabling more stable and reliable transfer standards for secondary laboratories and end-users.
Authors: B. Khanbabaee, Anja Honig, Stefan Röttger
Institution: Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt
Language: English
Subfield: Radiation
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,790
OpenAlex ID: W7142718822