[sdiy] Alpha Particle detectors

[KA4HJH]

>Well, I think gamma radiation is a lot easier to work with
>and detect than alpha and beta. Any geiger tube system
>would work. And radium is a good emitter, should be fairly
>easy to find some (old analogue watches?)

My old radium clock has decayed to the point where it doesn't even glow any
more. Sets the Geiger counter clicking, though.

Here's a page with a schematic--they also have a unit they'll be selling
"soon":

http://www.blackcatsystems.com/science/radiation.html


"LND is the supplier of some of the best quality GM tubes on the market.
Many are quite affordable for the hobbyist, under $100 for some large mica
window pancake style detectors, suitable for detecting even alpha
particles."

http://www.lndinc.com/


Well crap, I just checked and LND is closed until August 6th (on vacation).
Hope nobody's in too big of a hurry...


-- 

Terry Bowman, KA4HJH
"The Mac Doctor"